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Heat wave threatens: The risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony is so dangerous!
High risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony: observe heat wave, new fire brigade unit and important rules of conduct until October 31st.
Heat wave threatens: The risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony is so dangerous!
High temperatures and persistent drought are currently causing an alarming risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony. Loud NDR temperatures have risen to up to 36 degrees in some regions, raising the risk of forest fires to the second highest level 4. Areas such as Lüchow, Uelzen, Faßberg and the region around Meppen are particularly affected. The persistent dry conditions that began in spring as well as the less abundant July rain have severely damaged the forest floors.
The head of the forest fire center, Knut Sierk, expresses concern about the situation. He warns against open fires in forests, moors and heaths, which are absolutely prohibited until October 31st. A smoking ban also applies in particularly vulnerable areas. According to experts, human error is one of the main causes of fires. Therefore, all forest visitors are asked to be vigilant and to alert the fire department immediately in an emergency.
Fire department response and new strategies
In order to counteract the increasing risk of forest fires, Lower Saxony has decided on extensive measures. A newly designed fire brigade system, which will cost around ten million euros, is intended to improve the fight against forest fires. This information brings us North24 closer. As part of this initiative, special fire engines will also be purchased to increase the effectiveness of the fire department. The first of these vehicles have already been delivered and the unit will be used both nationally and internationally.
The introduction of a state unit for combating vegetation fires (GFFF-V unit) is intended to enable larger fires and similar operations to be managed more effectively. Climate change is driving this development as it dries out forests and thus increases the risk of fires.
Prevention and behavior in an emergency
The causes of forest fires are diverse. In addition to negligent behavior such as throwing away cigarettes or improper grilling, lightning strikes can also be dangerous. The Lower Saxony Forest Act provides for a strict fire ban from March 1st to October 31st. This also includes an absolute ban on smoking in and around forests. In the event of an emergency, citizens are urged to immediately call 112 and report the exact location of the fire. Further information on preventing forest fires and preventative measures can be found on the website Lower Saxony Ministry of Agriculture available.
Particularly interesting for train lovers: The Harz narrow-gauge railways have changed their timetables due to the risk of forest fires. Steam locomotives no longer run to the Brocken, but instead stop at Drei Annen Hohne, while diesel locomotives take over these routes. Penalties for smoking on trains and platforms have also been increased to ensure safety.
The ongoing risk of wildfires shows how important it is to be careful and protect nature. Let us work together to preserve our forests and moors so that we can continue to hike safely through the beautiful landscapes of Lower Saxony in the future.