Diana Buzoianu proposes new rules to prevent and fight forest fires, after 26 years without major changes

Acting Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu announced on Friday that a draft order updating, after 26 years, the rules on preventing and fighting forest fires had been submitted for public consultation. The initiative comes amid recent fires in Domogled–Valea Cernei National Park and other areas of the country, against a backdrop of drought, dry vegetation and difficult access.

The draft new rules provide measures to reduce combustible material in forests, maintain firebreaks and protect forest areas located near settlements or infrastructure. The document clarifies the responsibilities of forest owners, administrators and forestry bodies, regardless of the form of ownership.

Fire monitoring would be carried out using drones, optical and thermal-imaging cameras, as well as satellite imagery, to rapidly detect outbreaks, including in hard-to-reach areas. For large-scale fires, the rules provide for logistical support points, joint exercises and more effective cooperation among foresters, firefighters and military personnel.

The rules will be accompanied by a best-practice guide on prevention, intervention, personnel safety and first aid. The draft can be viewed on the Environment Ministry’s website, while proposals and comments may be submitted within no more than 10 days of publication.