We appeal to citizens to take responsibility for protecting our national treasure – Khortytsia Island.

We appeal to citizens to take responsibility for protecting our national treasure – Khortytsia Island.

A fire has broken out again on Khortytsia Island as a result of visitors violating the rules of the nature reserve and handling fire irresponsibly. The cause was lighting a bonfire, which is strictly prohibited, especially during the fire danger period.

The consequences are harrowing. Unique vegetation is being destroyed, and the animals that inhabit these areas are dying.

Such fires are tough to extinguish during the hot summer. They can last for several days. The fire spreads not only along the surface, but also through the internal decay of forest litter — a layer of dead plant matter, including needles and leaves. These peculiar fire metastases remain unnoticed and become a new source of open fire.

Please note that under the law, strict liability applies for causing damage to natural objects protected by the state.