Summer weather increases the risk of wildfires

Smoking is prohibited in Brandenburg's forests year-round. (File photo)

The risk of wildfires in Brandenburg is rising again over the long Pentecost weekend. According to current data from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environment, 9 out of 14 districts are currently at moderate risk - which corresponds to level 3 out of a total of 5 levels. The risk of wildfires will continue to rise on Sunday and Monday.

Forest monitoring using cameras and sensors is activated at risk level 3. At that point, the two forest fire control centers in Eberswalde and Wünsdorf are also staffed. Forestry authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. According to the ministry, human activity causes more than 90 percent of all forest fires. 

Things to keep in mind in the forest and by the lake

• Fires are prohibited in the forest. Barbecuing is not allowed in the forest or near the forest, and campfires are also prohibited. This also applies to the shores of forest lakes, as stated in the guidelines from the Ministry of the Environment and Forestry. These regulations are set forth in the Forest Act of the State of Brandenburg
• Smoking is prohibited in the forest year-round. Cigarettes may not be thrown out of a moving car.
• Vehicles must not be parked at forest entrances so as not to obstruct fire and emergency services during an emergency response. Cars may only be parked in designated parking spaces and not on dry grass.

New fire hydrants in Brandenburg

In Brandenburg, the risk of wildfires is generally considered to be particularly high compared to the rest of the country due to extensive pine forests, low rainfall, and light sandy soils. According to the state, the network of special firebreaks has been expanded to protect against wildfires. These are designed to slow the spread of fire and allow it to burn itself out. The government has also invested in new fire hydrants.