Dry heat in the Neckar-Odenwald: The highest risk of forest fire threatens!

Dry heat in the Neckar-Odenwald: The highest risk of forest fire threatens!

Odenwaldkreis, Deutschland - The heat of the past few weeks is not only noticeable on the thermometer, but also ensures burning concerns in the Neckar-Odenwald district. The temperatures are so high that the German Weather Service has proclaimed the highest risk level, level 5, for large parts of Baden-Württemberg. The forest threatens to dry out heavily due to the continued low rainfall and the high temperature, which significantly increases the risk of forest fires. Various regions in which level 4 has already been reached are particularly at risk, the rnz.de .

forest visitors are now called to exercise extreme caution. A strict ban on smoking in the forest applies until October 31, and in regions with a forest fire danger level of 4 and 5, designated fireplaces may not be used. This is particularly important to prevent the spread of a possible fire. "If you think you could grill or smoke in the forest, you have a very huge mistake," said the authorities' message. Drivers should be careful not to switch off their vehicles on dry leaves or grass, as this can also represent ignition sources.

precautionary measures for forest visitors

"The summer not only draws the landscape into a wonderfully green dress, it also brings with it the risk of forest fires," said a spokesman for the German Weather Service (DWD). Forest fires are particularly common in the summer months because high temperatures and lack of precipitation create ideal conditions. When monitoring this danger situation, the DWD uses over 60 measurement stations that take up the relevant weather data every hour. From March to October, the forest fire risk card is updated daily to inform the population in good time.

• open fire is strictly prohibited in the forest.
• grilling is only allowed in designated places.
• vehicles should always park on paved surfaces to avoid fire risks.

The local administration appeals to all suspicious smoke developments or fire smells immediately to report to the fire brigade under emergency number 112. In addition, care should be taken to ensure that forest access and paths are always kept free for emergency vehicles.

fire brigade and emergency services in use

In order to ensure the security of nature and the citizens, local authorities monitor compliance with these rules and can impose juicy fines of up to 10,000 euros in the event of violations. These measures are necessary to keep the risk of a devastating forest fire as low as possible. The motto here is: "Caution is better than forbearing".

The free app "Help in the Forest" is also a helpful tool to identify rescue meeting points and to contact the fire brigade, the police and the emergency services in an emergency. In the cool head and a responsible handling of nature, this summer could remain a carefree for everyone in the Neckar-Odenwald district if we adhere to the rules.