Dudi Simchi, the chief of the Fire and Rescue Service, praised on Wednesday the government's decision to ban the traditional bonfire lighting during the Lag BaOmer holiday in public and private areas.
"The decision is obvious in the face of the dangers to the public and the environment," said Simchi. "I urge parents and children alike to follow the guidelines and celebrate only in designated locations while strictly adhering to safety rules."
Last year, Simchi issued an order limiting bonfires on Lag Omar, a first of its kind, as part of a cultural change aiming to preserve nature and reduce damages to property and prevent casualties.