BNPB urges public to prevent forest and land fires, report any hotspots

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is urging the public, particularly residents in areas affected by forest and land fires (karhutla), to increase vigilance and help prevent the emergence of new hotspots.

“People across Indonesia should refrain from doing things that could potentially cause fires,” said Berton SP. Panjaitan, Acting Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Centre, in Jakarta on Monday.

Berton asked residents in areas affected by karhutla smoke to wear masks, especially when doing outdoor activities.

Likewise, members of the public undertaking nature tourism or camping are asked to ensure that campfires and other fire sources have been completely extinguished before leaving the location.

“Make sure the campfire or other sources have been completely extinguished, so as not to leave anything flammable at the camping or nature tourism site,” he said.

BNPB is asking the public to report immediately if they find hotspots, potential fires or other emergency conditions through the BNPB emergency service on number 117 or to the local Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD).

According to Berton, public reports are needed so that officers can handle the situation as early as possible before fires spread.

“Contact us immediately when you find hotspots by calling 117, or report directly to the local BPBD or other agencies if you see hotspots, potential fires or other emergency incidents in your surroundings,” he said.

He said the government has also issued a number of policies to strengthen karhutla prevention efforts. One of these is Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs Number 1 of 2026 on the Prevention and Control of Forest and Land Fires, which among other things prohibits land clearing by burning.

BNPB also reminded the public of the potential for fires at waste processing and disposal sites. Residents are asked not to burn waste at final disposal sites (TPA) or around residential areas.

Meanwhile, local governments are asked to take preventive measures, including wetting land in TPA areas to reduce the potential for fires.