Beware of forest fires! Observe the rules for the Palatinate Forest now!

Beware of forest fires! Observe the rules for the Palatinate Forest now!

The risk of forest fires is currently at a critical level in Rhineland-Palatinate, especially in the Palatinate Forest. In March of this year, the first forest fire occurred above Bad Bergzabern, which can be seen as an alarming sign. Covering an area of ​​about 400 square meters, initially incorrectly reported as one hectare, the fire was likely caused by arson, police reported. Witnesses are being actively sought because on the day of the fire the forest floor was too wet for spontaneous combustion and possible information from the public could be crucial. The firefighting efforts, in which almost 50 emergency services and 13 vehicles were mobilized, were extremely challenging due to the impassable terrain and the darkness. The March drought in particular increased the risk of fire in the Palatinate Forest, as warm temperatures and little rain led to the forest floor drying out. In addition, the trees withdraw additional water from the soil during the vegetation phase, which exacerbates the situation. The fire brigade and disaster control work hand in hand to act preventively and to be prepared in the event of a fire, as [SWR] reports.

Be careful in summer: follow the rules!

In summer, the region not only struggles with heat, but also with a higher risk of forest fires. The changeable weather brings occasional rain showers, but this does not change the fundamental danger posed by drought and high temperatures. In the Palatinate Forest there are clear rules to avoid fires. This includes a year-round ban on open fires and smoking in the forest. This should definitely not be taken lightly, as the risk of forest fires is particularly high among tourists and forest visitors. As early as March, walkers and hikers should be aware that they are walking in a highly sensitive area, as [Die Rheinpfalz] notes.

Protection against forest fires is a high priority in Rhineland-Palatinate. The state forests work on a structural level with the fire department and disaster control to develop and continue basic prevention concepts. It is increasingly important to find regionally specific solutions for firefighting and to ensure good cooperation between the various actors. Forests in Rhineland-Palatinate are generally considered to be less at risk of fire, for example due to the high proportion of hardwood of around 60 percent and the increasing number of mixed forests. A dense network of paths also enables quicker access for emergency services and acts as an important fire break, but there are exceptions here too: some forest areas are particularly at risk due to their nature. Caution is therefore advised, especially in dry summer phases, as emphasized on the [state forestry website].

Forest visitors should always be vigilant. With knowledge of the special dangers and compliance with the rules, we can work together to protect the forests and prevent forest fires.