Large-scale operation in the Karlsruhe district: Silo fire with embers!
Major operation in Karlsruhe: Fire in the wood chip silo on October 29th, 2025. Around 100 firefighters are fighting against embers.

Large-scale operation in the Karlsruhe district: Silo fire with embers!
In a dramatic operation, the fire department in the Karlsruhe district fought a large fire in a wood chip silo today. According to a report by stern.de The fire began in the silo, which is located on company premises. Between 80 and 100 emergency services have been on site for several hours to avert the danger. What is positive to report is that there have been no injuries so far, as Robert Redinger, spokesman for the district fire brigade association, confirmed.
The silo is around 15 to 20 meters high and fighting the fire is particularly difficult. The wood chips must be brought under control using respiratory protection and separated, whereby so-called “ember balls” must be extinguished. The exact time when the operation can end is currently uncertain.
On-site support and technology
The fire brigade is supported in its operations by the Technical Relief Agency and the city's building depot. Equipment used includes wheel loaders to help fight the flames. In addition, a special vacuum vehicle from a waste disposal company was requested to safely empty the silo and thus minimize the risk of fire.
The risks posed by such silos should not be underestimated. According to DGUV Information 209-083, it is important that effective fire and explosion protection is guaranteed. Steel silos for wood dust and chips can lead to dangerous situations if sparks or spontaneous combustion occur. What is particularly alarming is that closed silos cannot simply be opened, as there is a risk of an explosive mixture bgbau-medien.de is presented.
Anticipatory measures and safety precautions
Continuous coordination of firefighting measures with the fire department is crucial. Particularly open silos in sawmills do not require a stationary extinguishing device as long as water can be applied from above. At the same time, modern inerting techniques are important to reduce oxygen levels and reduce the risk of fires. This knowledge is an essential part of fire protection and should definitely be taken into account.
The effective measures taken by the emergency services show that even in such dangerous situations, the safety of people and the effectiveness of firefighting are the top priority.