Foreign Office issues new Turkey travel warning about fines and possible prison

The Foreign Office has updated its advice for anyone travelling to Turkey - and warned that anyone ignoring the rules could face fines or a prison sentence. The officials said people need to be aware of the rules around barbecues and smoking if they go into the countryside.

It advised for people going on holiday to check the regional advice because of the high risk of serious fires as the weather gets hotter. The Foreign Office last night issued the new alert and said: "Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer.

"See the sites below for more information:

• General Directorate of Forestry (in Turkish)

• General Directorate of Meteorology (in Turkish)

"You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland. Barbecues are prohibited in these areas. If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities. If you see a wildfire, call emergency services on 112."

There are standing warnings about the potential for terrorist attacks in the country with the potential for UK tourists to be specifically targeted. It said: "Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

"Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, such as: public buildings, places of worship, airports, large public gatherings (including major events, public holidays, religious occasions)."

There is also the risk of unscheduled political demonstrations due to the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories and the Foreign Office said: "Large demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.

"Avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may be disrupted."