Cirebon Regency Declares Drought and Forest Fire Emergency Alert

The Cirebon Regency Government has declared a state of emergency for drought and forest and land fires. The status is established through the Cirebon Regent’s Decree Number 300.2/Kep.388-BPBD/2026 and will be in effect from 1 July to 30 September 2026. Acting Head of the Cirebon Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Syamsul Huda, explained that the emergency status is a form of local government preparedness in facing potential disaster threats, particularly the impacts of the dry season. However, he noted that the government cannot work alone. Community support is needed to anticipate unwanted incidents during the dry season. Residents are urged not to carelessly discard cigarette butts, especially in areas with dry vegetation such as bushes, vacant land, or forests. A lit cigarette butt can trigger a fire that is difficult to control, especially when the environment is dry. The public is also asked to stop the habit of burning rubbish indiscriminately, as this activity not only increases the risk of land and settlement fires but can also worsen air quality. Syamsul stated that public awareness and concern are the main keys to preventing disasters. He also called on residents to be more vigilant against extreme weather, including strong winds, and advised against taking shelter under trees or billboards during such conditions. BPBD Cirebon Regency invites the entire community to jointly enhance preparedness for the dry season. If residents encounter potential dangers such as fires or fallen trees, they can contact the BPBD Cirebon Regency call centre at 0877-8729-9991.