Heat Alert and wildfire risk activated in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands Government, through the Directorate General for Security and Emergencies, has declared an alert for high temperatures and wildfire risk due to the extreme heat and calima from this evening, Thursday, 18th September 2025, until further notice.
The public is being urged to follow official health and safety recommendations to reduce the risk of heat-related illness and avoid actions that could spark fires during this period of extreme conditions.
Staying safe in high temperatures
Under the Civil Protection Plan for Forest Fire Emergencies (PEFMA), authorities recommend:
- Stay out of direct sun and keep to shaded or cool indoor areas.
- Lower blinds on windows exposed to sunlight; open windows at night to let cooler air in.
- Use fans or air conditioning where possible, but take care with sudden temperature changes.
- Wear hats, caps, and light, loose-fitting clothing. Walk in the shade and use umbrellas when outdoors.
- Drink water regularly and carry a bottle with you.
- Avoid strenuous activity and exercise during the hottest hours.
- Eat light meals, especially fruit and vegetables, and avoid alcohol and heavy foods.
- Never leave children, older people, or pets inside a closed vehicle.
- Check in daily on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.
- If on medication, consult your doctor about possible effects on your body’s heat regulation.
For further information, call 012.
Preventing wildfires
Authorities stress that personal responsibility is key to avoiding fires:
- Do not discard litter, cigarette butts, matches, or glass in natural areas.
- Obtain permission before burning garden or agricultural waste.
- Only camp in authorised areas and with a permit.
- Light fires only in designated recreation areas with built-in barbecues, and extinguish them fully.
- Avoid entering forests or mountain areas during high fire risk periods unless absolutely necessary and familiar with the terrain.
- If you see smoke or flames, call 1-1-2 immediately, giving the most accurate location possible.
If caught in a wildfire
- Move to safety, ideally towards areas that have already burned.
- Avoid moving uphill or staying at mountain tops.
- If trapped, lie on the ground, cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth, and never attempt to run through flames or dense smoke.
- Remain calm and follow evacuation instructions carefully.
The Canary Islands Government stresses that calm, caution, and awareness are the best tools to stay safe during this heatwave and high-risk wildfire period.
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