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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (September 11) reminded people to observe fire safety and keep the countryside clean during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
"Visitors should not release any Hung Ming lanterns, and be extremely careful with barbecue fire as well as candle-lit lanterns in the countryside, " an AFCD spokesman said.
"It is an offence under the Forests and Countryside Ordinance to illegally light a fire or release a Hung Ming lantern in country parks and open countryside.
"Anyone who contravenes the ordinance is liable to a maximum fine of $25,000 and one year's imprisonment."
The spokesman also reminded visitors to keep the countryside clean. Anyone who commits a littering offence in the country park area is liable to a fixed penalty of $1,500.
Ends/Thursday, September 11, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:20
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