Forest Fire & Wildfire Safety in Bulgaria: What to Do, Who to Call

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Wildfires in Bulgaria can spread fast in hot, windy weather. If you see smoke or flames, dial 112 immediately—the national emergency number connects you to fire & rescue dispatch.

Learn what to do in the event of a fire.

BG‑ALERT, Bulgaria’s cell‑broadcast public warning system, may also push alerts to your phone during dangerous situations or tests. Obey the instructions, and use the official fire‑danger and weather tools linked below.

For high‑mountain travel guidance, see our Mountain Safety: Trails, Huts, Rescue resource.

For emergency medical help and information on hospitals, see Emergency Care in Bulgaria: 112, Hospitals.

What is BG‑ALERT, and how will it warn me during wildfires?

BG‑ALERT sends cell‑broadcast messages to compatible phones connected to Bulgarian networks (local SIM or roaming). Messages are bilingual and are tested nationwide twice per year (April & October) alongside the siren system. You don’t need mobile data; alerts appear with a distinctive sound and banner. Keep alerts ON in your phone settings.

Whom should I contact to report a forest fire?

Call 112 immediately. Provide the location (coordinates/landmarks), the type (size), the number of people at risk, and the caller’s contact information (callback number)—in precisely the format dispatchers expect.

What should I do when I get a BG‑ALERT about a wildfire?

• Read the full message and follow instructions (e.g., evacuate a zone, avoid an area, or shelter in place).
• Do not reply—BG‑ALERT is one‑way. Dismiss on‑screen when safe to do so.
• Share reliable info with nearby people who may not have received the alert (children, seniors, tourists).

What are the rules and bans in/near forests during fire season?

Bulgarian law and implementing ordinances prohibit open flames in forest territories, and seasonal orders commonly ban fire‑lighting and “hot works” within 100 m of the forest boundary, plus stubble burning and discarding cigarette butts. Fines and, in severe cases, criminal liability apply. Always watch for local/regional orders.

What should I do if I see a fire while hiking or camping?

1. Call 112 quickly with clear location info.
2. Move away upwind (fire runs with the wind and faster uphill).
3. If escape is cut off, head for clearings, roads, meadows, or water; cover exposed skin and place a damp cloth over mouth/nose.
4. Do not try to fight anything beyond a small spot fire; never take risks.
   (These steps reflect Bulgarian Red Cross guidance used by PBZN.) en.redcross.bg

If I’m driving and encounter smoke or a fire front?

Avoid smoke if you can. If you must pass light smoke, slow down, headlights on, windows/vents closed. If visibility drops to near‑zero or fire is approaching, turn around or park in a cleared area, keep doors/windows shut, and wait for instructions via 112/BG‑ALERT. (General PBZN safety rules apply; never block fire roads.) eu-hr.mvr.bg

Where can I check fire danger and weather before a trip?

• EFFIS (EU Forest Fire Information System)—maps of current fires and fire‑danger classes (FWI). EFFIS
• NIMH (Bulgaria’s meteorological service)—short‑range forecasts, mountain forecast, and a Recommended Fire Preparedness Forecast during the season. meteo.bg

Who is in charge of firefighting and civil protection?

The General Directorate “Fire Safety and Civil Protection” (GDPBZN) at the Ministry of Interior leads firefighting and civil‑protection operations nationwide. Use 112 for all emergencies; local park/forest directorates may also publish restrictions and notices.

Are there local bans in parks like Vitosha?

Yes. Park directorates frequently remind visitors that open fires are banned in forest areas (typically within 100 m of the boundary) and to report any fire to 112 immediately. Always check the latest local notice before your visit. park-vitosha.org

What if trails are poorly marked during an evacuation?

Do not rely on old or unmarked paths. Prefer roads, clearings, and marked exits; visibility can drop fast in smoke. For outdoor planning, see our Mountain Safety guide (maps, offline navigation, hut contacts). Further sources can be found at en.redcross.bg.

After I report a fire, will 112 call me back?

Dispatch may contact you for clarification or updates if it is safe to do so. Keep your line free and your phone audible until responders arrive or you are out of danger. The 112 system runs through regional centers that coordinate police, fire, and ambulance responses.

I was injured during a wildfire—who pays for medical care?

Call 112 for ambulance/ED. Payment depends on your status and the type of provider (public vs. private). See Emergency Care in Bulgaria: 112, Hospitals for a clear breakdown for residents, EHIC/GHIC visitors, and uninsured travelers.

Useful official resources

• BG‑ALERT (system info & tests); MoI siren/BG‑ALERT test notices. bg-alert.bg
• 112 (National Emergency System)
• GDPBZN (Fire Safety & Civil Protection)—national authority for firefighting/civil protection. mvr.bg
• Executive Forest Agency & rules (forest‑fire protection ordinance; seasonal bans and legal basis). FAOLEX
• EFFIS current situation—EU fire danger & perimeters; NIMH forecasts (incl. fire preparedness). Copernicus Emergency Management
• Bulgarian Red Cross—fire tips (reporting format & survival basics). Redcross.bg