TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Miaoli County Fire Department said on Monday that 30 cemetery fires were reported over the weekend.

During the Hakka tradition of tomb sweeping between the Lantern Festival and the Tomb Sweeping Festival, a cemetery fire was reported at noon on Sunday, per CNA. Firefighters discovered multiple fire spots, which took over three hours to control. 

The department said a man surnamed Wu (吳) caused the fire by using a gas torch to burn weeds. Flames spread approximately 500 square meters.

Wu said the fire was ignited by a lack of space to dispose of the cut weeds. The individual will fined up to NT$3,000 (US$100) for violating the Fire Services Act. 

Additionally, he was referred to the Miaoli District Prosecutors Office for investigation on charges of endangering public safety.

The department reminds the public to avoid starting fires or discarding cigarette butts while visiting cemeteries for tomb sweeping. Any remaining embers should be immediately extinguished.

The department added that Miaoli has nearly 180 cemeteries. On Feb. 24 and Feb. 25 last year, the county reported 118 cemetery fire incidents, per ETtoday.