As Jerusalem prepares for Lag BaOmer – a Jewish holiday marked by large communal bonfires, usually celebrated with families and communities gathering around fires across the city – authorities are moving into a heightened state of alert. The Jerusalem Municipality, together with Fire and Rescue Services – Jerusalem District, is enforcing tight restrictions amid extreme heat and elevated wildfire risk.
According to an official order by Israel’s Fire Commissioner, lighting bonfires is prohibited throughout Jerusalem, except in designated areas that have been specifically prepared and approved. Municipal teams have cleared vegetation, marked safe zones, and ensured access for emergency responders.
Where are bonfires allowed in Jerusalem during the festival?
This year’s policy is strict: bonfires are permitted only in officially designated locations published by the municipality. The idea is to concentrate celebrations into fewer, controlled areas, reducing the number of fire points and allowing better supervision.
Fire officials are also urging residents to reconsider lighting bonfires at all, and if they do, to keep them small and limited in scale.
Why are restrictions stricter in Jerusalem this year?
The combination of dry weather, high temperatures, and strong winds significantly increases the risk of fires spreading rapidly. Fire and Rescue Jerusalem District Commander Shmulik Friedman warned that any violation could escalate quickly into a dangerous situation, adding that crews will not hesitate to shut down unsafe bonfires.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion emphasized public responsibility: “We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday. The municipality has prepared designated areas for bonfires. Please follow safety guidelines for your safety and your children’s safety.”
How can visitors and residents celebrate safely in Jerusalem?
Authorities highlight clear safety rules: bonfires should only be lit in open, clean areas far from buildings and infrastructure, under adult supervision, and with extinguishing materials such as water or sand nearby. Burning hazardous materials is strictly forbidden, and care should be taken not to harm wildlife attracted to the flames.
At the end of the celebrations, fires must be completely extinguished and all waste properly cleared. In case of emergency, residents and visitors can call Fire and Rescue Services at 102 or the municipal hotline at 106.
