On 6 August 2021, at around 19:00, a fire broke out near Tavaklı village. There were many fires that year. Thanks to the fire brigade teams and the young people of Tavaklı Village, the fires were brought under control before causing major damage.
Another fire broke out in Tavaklı Village. On 26 August 2021, the fire came quite close to the village. The fire brigade teams and the young people of Tavaklı helped extinguish the forest fire.
Forest fires are a serious concern in Turkey, especially during the hot, dry summer months when high temperatures, strong winds and reduced humidity create ideal conditions for flames to spread quickly. The Aegean and Mediterranean regions are among the most vulnerable areas, with pine forests, olive groves and scrubland that can ignite easily. Many fires start accidentally, often through discarded cigarettes, uncontrolled agricultural burning or sparks from machinery. Others are caused by lightning strikes during thunderstorms. In recent years, rising temperatures and longer dry periods have contributed to an increase in both the frequency and intensity of wildfires across the country.
Turkey has a well-organised response system for forest fires, involving the Orman Genel Müdürlüğü (General Directorate of Forestry), aerial firefighting teams, local fire brigades and community volunteers. Residents and villagers often play an important role in early detection, especially in rural areas where fires can spread rapidly if not spotted immediately. If you see a forest fire—or even smoke that may indicate the start of one—you should report it without delay. The emergency number to call in Turkey for forest fires is ALO 177, which connects directly to the forestry fire emergency line. You can also dial 112, the general emergency number. Quick reporting can make a critical difference in preventing small fires from becoming large, destructive ones.
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