Extra alert on wildfires

It has been dry in our region for some time, which means that the risk of wildfires is high. The fire department is therefore extra alert for fires in natural areas. Even in times of drought, visitors are of course still welcome to visit nature. We do ask you to be extra alert and report any suspicious things.

What should I pay attention to when it is very dry in nature?

  • You are not allowed to light open fires in natural areas. Fire pits, torches, wishing balloons and fireworks are also not allowed, as is cooking in nature with open fire on solid fuels, such as wood or charcoal/briquettes.
  •  Assume that any fire ban exemption granted is no longer valid; see the Requirements of the exemption or contact the granting authority (municipality or province) about this.
  •  Be alert to suspicious situations and report them to the site owner or an emergency service. Help by taking photos or videos and remember the location, personal characteristics and, for example, a license plate number if you don't trust a situation.
  •  Always keep fire extinguishers on hand at your residence, such as a fire blanket, garden hose, fire extinguisher or, if necessary, a bucket of water.
  •  Remember, you won't have good cell phone coverage everywhere in nature.
  •  Do not accidentally cause a wildfire: therefore, always throw cigarettes and glass in a trash can or take it with you. Also consider coals from the barbecue or accumulated garden waste (scalding), and do not park your car (with hot catalytic converter) in high and dry grass.
  •  Possibly take a topographic Map App with you when you go out.

What can you do if there is a wildfire?

  • Do not wait for help. Flee as quickly and far away from the fire as possible, to the public road if possible.
  •  Do not walk in front of the fire or in the direction the fire is spreading, but at right angles to the fire. By doing so, the fire is less likely to overtake you.
  •  Help other people and children get to a safe place.
  •  Call 911 to relay the location of the fire as precisely as possible. Don't know the exact location yourself? No problem! With your help and permission, the emergency room can see where you are. To do so, they use the "location" of your smartphone. The 112 app can also help: When you make a report, your location is sent along to the emergency room.