In advance of Lag Ba’omer, former Chief Rabbi of Israel and President of the Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah Rav Yitzchak Yosef met in Yerushalayim with senior officials from Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services. Participating in the meeting were Fire and Rescue Commissioner Eyal Caspi and the service’s Chief Rabbi, Rav Chaim Perl.
The meeting focused on safety concerns related to bonfires typically lit during Lag Ba’omer celebrations. Fire officials warned of the serious risks involved in lighting unauthorized or unsafe fires, especially given the recent large wildfire that broke out in the Jerusalem hills just two weeks ago.
Rav Yosef commended the fire officials for their tireless work in protecting lives and issued a public call for increased caution and responsibility. “As Lag Ba’omer approaches,” he said, “it is appropriate to warn and strengthen the public to be vigilant and avoid any potential danger. During the recent fire on Yom Hazikaron, which spread rapidly over vast areas, there were open miracles. We must not rely on miracles. No one should light a bonfire in an open area.”
He urged the public to coordinate only with official municipal guidelines: “Small bonfires should be held only in places authorized by the local municipality in which you reside. Contact your local city office and find out where it is permitted.”
Rav Yosef also addressed additional safety concerns related to fire prevention at home. “Smoke detectors are crucial,” he said. “They give early warning of a fire and can help save lives by allowing people to escape in time. They should be installed in every bedroom, hallway, and living area—though not in kitchens. Be cautious with electric bikes and scooters as well. Under no circumstances should batteries be thrown into a bonfire. That is dangerous and can be fatal. Charge your devices safely—only during the day and under supervision. Unplug the charger once charging is complete. Only use certified batteries and chargers with proper safety approval.”
He emphasized that several deadly incidents in the past year were the result of ignoring these basic safety rules. “There have been tragedies that cost human lives. The Torah commands us, venishmartem me’od lenafshoseichem. Every person must take this seriously. Our lives are precious. When we are alive, we can do so many mitzvos, so many acts of kindness, so much learning. Life is a treasure, and we must protect it.”
The former Chief Rabbi concluded with a heartfelt plea. “Everyone should warn their friends and family members: it is forbidden to light bonfires in open areas unless they are designated by the municipality. May we hear no more destruction or tragedy in our communities. May we hear only good news, salvations, and comfort. May the merit of Rav Shimon bar Yochai, whose hilula we celebrate on Lag Ba’omer, stand by all of Klal Yisroel.Amein.”

{Matzav.com Israel}