Grilling despite the risk of forest fires: Police take action in Klein Ilsede

Grilling despite the risk of forest fires: Police take action in Klein Ilsede

In Klein Ilsede, in the Peine district, a recent barbecue caused a stir. On July 3, 2025, two teenagers and a young adult tried to grill at a lake, even though grilling is only permitted in designated areas in the region due to the high risk of forest fires. The members of the fire brigades from Klein and Groß Ilsede came across the group during a training exercise and made them aware of the acute danger. Despite the advice, the group initially refused to comply with the request.

The fire department tried to stop the teenagers and young adults from grilling. However, when they refused, the police were called. They then issued a dismissal, which the group finally complied with, but made disparaging comments about the fire brigade and the police. The authorities expressly point out how important it is to comply with the rules when there is a risk of forest fires, especially in such hot and dry times, which increase the overall risk of forest fires.

Take the risk of forest fires seriously

What is happening in Klein Ilsede provides an insight into a general problem: the frequent heat waves and dry periods lead to an increase in the risk of forest fires in many regions. Similar to the Black Forest and the Swabian Alb, where forestry authorities warn against open fires outdoors, many districts in Germany also see similar challenges. For example, in the region around Haigerloch, Bisingen and Hechingen, barbecue areas are completely closed. It is important to note that barbecue areas are often located in or near wooded areas where any type of fire can pose a hazard.

According to a report by Waldwissen.net, the legal regulations for dealing with fire in the forest vary depending on the federal state. In federal states such as Brandenburg there is a year-round ban on smoking in forests. If there is a very high risk of forest fires, which can occur above a certain warning level, entering and driving through forests may even be prohibited. Therefore, walkers and nature lovers should be even more careful in areas at risk of forest fires.

Rules of conduct and tips for fire prevention

If there is a risk of forest fire, there are a few important rules of conduct to follow. This includes not lighting open fires and avoiding smoking in the forest, even if there are no official restrictions. Parking vehicles on flammable surfaces, such as dry grass, should also be avoided to prevent accidental fires. And should a fire actually occur, everyone is obliged to provide unsolicited help without putting themselves in danger and without alerting the fire department.

The situation surrounding barbecues and the associated risk of forest fires is an important issue that affects us all. By following the rules together and looking out for each other, we can help protect our beautiful forests and surrounding areas. A cozy barbecue can wait until the danger has passed – safety comes first!

For more information on forest fire dangers and rules of conduct, visit our sources: NDR, Forest knowledge, Black Forest messenger.