Smoking Ban in and Around Forests and Nature Reserves in Voorne aan Zee
The Municipality of Voorne aan Zee has imposed an annual smoking ban in forests, on heathland and peatlands, in dune areas, and within 30 meters of those areas.
The ban is in effect from April 1 through November 1 and is being implemented for the first time this year. The municipality made this decision due to the ongoing drought, high temperatures, and the resulting risk of wildfires. Fires caused by smoking are one of the main causes.
Addition to Existing Rules
The smoking ban is an additional rule on top of the rules already set forth in the municipality’s General Local Ordinance (APV). This ordinance already prohibits activities on or near the “ beach ” and in the dune area that could cause a wildfire, such as barbecuing, open fires, torches, or fire pits.
Mayor Arno Scheepers: “The risk of wildfires is a pressing issue. Unfortunately, we’ve already seen how they’ve broken out in other parts of our country. We live in a beautiful, nature-rich municipality where the risk of wildfires is present. The smoking ban is a very important step. What may be even more important, however, is our awareness and behavior. I urge everyone to use common sense, strictly follow the rules, and take shared responsibility for a safe living environment. Only in this way can we help prevent wildfires.”