Traditional tire fires 'are carcinogenic'

The Ministry of Environment is warning the general population that the smoke emanating from tire fires which are traditionally practiced on Easter night in parts of the country have the potential to cause cancer, Info-Prim Neo reports. The tradition of lighting fires on Easter in Moldova is known as 'denii' and is believed to have the power to drive away evil spirits. In time traditional materials such as wood and plant wastes have been replaced by used tires, and the authorities warn that 8 out of 23 dangerous substances released into the air together with tire smoke are carcinogenic. The noxious substances contained in the smoke affect the brain, the lungs and the liver, it was found. Moreover, the practice is punishable under the Administrative Offenses Code by up to 60 hours of community service and fines ranging from 400 to 800 lei for individuals, and fines of 4,000 to 6,000 lei for legal entities.