Frequently I run across stories about wildfires in Phuket. Now quit giggling. Phuket is really a place. Maybe you, unlike me at first, are familiar with Phuket, and you already know that Phuket is an island and also a province in Thailand (map).

Here is a photo and an article from phuketnews:

On March 10th, 2010, Wichai Praisa-ngob, announced that all area in Phuket is now under the wild fire control. During the dry season, farmers who have to burn their crops have to ask for burning permission from the village leaders. When the crop burning occurs, farmers have to build up a fence to control the fire. Moreover, they have to make sure that the fire will not spread to connected areas. If there are any wildfires caused by crop burning without permission and control fences, the farmers will be prosecuted. In addition, the government will ask people who encroach or exploit preserved forests or national park areas, to move out and indict them as well.

Wichai also asked for all Phuket residents to be aware of wildfire: if there is any wildfire and they cannot stop it, call Phuket Wildfire Control Station Hotline:1362 or Tel. 08-6272-7492,08-7886-4498

I dare you to name your next fire “Phuket”!

For a different view of Phuket, check out this beach scene.