BEIJING - China's Ministry of Civil Affairs has stepped up security measures to ensure safety of people observing the tomb-sweeping festival, with emphasis on fire prevention and easing traffic congestion.

The ministry has made emergency plans and enhanced monitoring of key cemeteries, a statement said Monday.

Tomb-sweeping Day, which falls on Wednesday, is one of the country's official public holidays and lasts from Monday to Wednesday. During this time Chinese people pay respects to their ancestors and departed family members by setting symbolic objects alight. This can often result in accidental fires in drought-hit areas.

A ministry official was quoted as saying that efforts should be made to "maintain tomb-sweeping order" and "minimize fire risks," adding that inspection would be enhanced.

The statement went on to say that local governments should release timely information to inform the public of peak tomb-sweeping hours or organize public memorial activities.