Haslach practices in an emergency: the fire brigade prepares for a forest fire

Haslach practices in an emergency: the fire brigade prepares for a forest fire

The fire department in Haslach recently impressively demonstrated how well it is prepared to fight an emergency forest fire. On June 30, 2025, comrades from Fischerbach and Mühlenbach carried out a comprehensive exercise scenario together with forester Frank Werstein. The simulated fire in a forest below the Holy Well was not only a challenge, but also an opportunity to further training and improve operational tactics.

In this exercise, which was developed by deputy commander Andreas Wöhrle, the focus was clearly on the experiences from recent years. The Haslach fire department continually invests in equipment to fight forest and vegetation fires, including specially developed firefighting backpacks. In order to promote practical transfer, various test evenings were organized to train operational tactics.

Well thought-out operational management

The operations management took place on Lindenstrasse. Fire engines then drove quickly to the affected forest area. The fictitious fire room was marked with barrier tape and smoke machines to recreate the realistic conditions of fighting a fire. The participants equipped themselves with the necessary backpacks and immediately began extinguishing the fire.

A shuttle service for the extinguishing water was set up with tank fire engines, and folding containers were also available on forest paths to serve as a buffer for extinguishing water. During the exercise, forester Werstein's local knowledge was of great importance to the fire department. Operations manager Stefan Possler emphasized the importance of cooperation and pointed out that farmers with pump barrels could provide support during longer operations.

The exercise not only followed a realistic operational scenario, but also taught important strategies and tactics for fighting vegetation fires. Fighting forest fires often requires quick action and coordinated action. Forest visitors are often the first on the scene of a fire and should not only call emergency services, but also try to put out the fire with twigs and branches, if possible. The accumulated knowledge and experience of the emergency services are invaluable in such moments.

Positive conclusion

Those involved drew a consistently positive conclusion from the exercise. Forester Frank Werstein was enthusiastic about the willingness and commitment of the firefighters. Their ability to act quickly and effectively in the event of major fires not only ensures safety in the forest, but also increases the protection of the surrounding infrastructure.

This exercise is another step in the continuous improvement of firefighting techniques, which are essential at a time when wildfires are becoming increasingly common. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application is crucial for the safety and protection of our forests.

For further information on fighting forest fires and the various techniques that can be used, [waldwissen.net](https://www.waldwissen.net/de/waldwirtschaft/ Schadensmanagement/waldbrand/waldbrandbekaempfung) and vegetationsbraende.de offer a valuable resource.