Skopje, 6 August 2021 (MIA) – The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning (MEPP) is appealing for increased caution and responsible behavior, because in conditions of the extremely high temperatures that have been afflicting the country recently, the smallest sign of carelessness can cause fires that will have catastrophic consequences to people’s health, nature and the environment. “Fires not only destroy nature, they also cause an increase in the concentrations of suspended particles in the air, which is why yesterday there was a surpass of the daily borderline values at almost every measuring point in the country. The fires near water surfaces may have a negative influence on surface and underground waters, causing physical and chemical changes to the quality of the water,” the Ministry says in a statement. The MEPP says that when there are fires, the water from wells and springs should undergo quality controls before use. Furthermore, one should keep in mind that the water used for putting out fires is drawn from nearby water bodies, which may cause an imbalance of their water balance. “We especially appeal for vigilance and caution by legal entities that have contact with chemicals, derivates, volatile and flammable materials, as well as to follow fire protection and hazard plans accordingly,” the MEPP says. dk/ba/