The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) are advising Irish holidaymakers travelling in destinations where wildfires are affecting parts of southern Europe, including Spain and south west France, to remain vigilant, follow local authority guidance and stay informed throughout their trip.
While the majority of holiday destinations continue to operate as normal, wildfires can develop rapidly and may lead to travel disruption, road closures, evacuations and changes to transport services. Travellers are encouraged to monitor official advice and be prepared to adapt their plans if necessary.
The ITAA advises travellers to:
· Monitor local news and follow all instructions issued by local authorities, emergency services, accommodation providers and tour representatives.
· Check the latest travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs at www.ireland.ie/travel before departure and while overseas. Citizens can also register their stay abroad at https://citizensregistration.dfa.ie/ so that they can be contacted by the Irish Embassy if there is an unforeseen crisis.
· Keep your mobile phone charged, switched on and roaming enabled so you can receive emergency alerts from local authorities.
· Contact your tour operator or travel agent if your destination is affected or if you require assistance with alternative travel arrangements.
· Take out Travel Insurance at time of booking and ensure your travel insurance provides appropriate cover, including travel disruption, and familiarise yourself with your policy before travelling.
· Keep passports, medication, travel documents, money and essential belongings easily accessible in case you need to leave your accommodation quickly. Only do so if it is safe and you have been instructed to evacuate.
· Avoid travelling into areas where wildfires are active or where emergency services have restricted access.
· Follow official road closures and evacuation routes and never attempt to enter restricted areas or use unapproved routes.
Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA, said, “Wildfires can develop quickly and conditions can change within a very short period of time. The most important advice for Irish holidaymakers is to follow the instructions of local authorities and emergency services, remain aware of developments in their area and avoid travelling to affected locations.”
“If your travel plans are disrupted, contact your travel agent or tour operator as soon as possible.
“They are there to support you before, during and after your holiday and can assist with alternative arrangements where required.
“We also encourage travellers to ensure they have appropriate travel insurance in place and to familiarise themselves with what their policy covers before they travel.”
The ITAA reminds travellers that, although wildfires are currently affecting parts of Spain and France, disruption is generally localised and the vast majority of visitors will continue to enjoy their holidays safely.