During the summer picnic season, Ukrainians have been warned about serious liability for lighting bonfires in prohibited places. According to the Coordination Center for Free Legal Aid, for making barbecues in the wrong place, you can get not only a fine, but also a criminal penalty.
Where you can't make a fire
It is forbidden to light a fire:
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in the forest during a fire danger period - if there is no specially equipped place;
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in nature conservation areas (reserves);
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closer than 30 meters to buildings and structures;
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in city parks, squares or yards - without a permitted place;
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in any areas designated as prohibited by law.
What is the liability provided for?
Administrative:
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for starting a fire in the forest - a fine from 1,530 to 4,590 UAH;
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in a settlement - from 340 to 1360 UAH.
Criminal:
If a fire results in significant property damage or people are injured, the offender is subject to:
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fine from 17,000 to 68,340 UAH;
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or correctional labor for up to 2 years;
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or restriction or imprisonment for up to 3 years.
How to cook safely outdoors
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Use only specially equipped places (concrete barbecues, platforms).
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Always have a fire extinguisher, water or sand nearby.
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Do not light a fire directly on the ground, in dry grass, or near trees.
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Do not leave a fire unattended.
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Once finished, be sure to completely extinguish the fire.
We remind you: even a regular picnic can end in court if you do not follow basic fire safety rules.

