In 2024, as in previous years, several heatwaves are expected to affect large parts of Germany. In light of the past drought summers, it is important to inform oneself once again about the forest fire danger levels - and what to do in case of a fire.
The Forest Fire Danger Levels
The forest fire danger levels range from 1 to 5:
- 1: Very low danger. The forest can be entered without restrictions.
- 2: Low danger. Increased caution is required, ignition sources should be avoided. Additionally, cars should not be parked in forest parking lots with dry ground vegetation.
- 3: Moderate danger. The forest fire danger is elevated, but entering the forest is still allowed.
- 4: High danger. The forestry authority can close the forest and tourist facilities in the forest. Public roads and paths must not be left.
- 5: Very high danger. The forestry authority can close the forest, which should not be entered or driven on. Exceptions are only for forestry authorities, fire protection forces, emergency services, and disaster relief.
Only 5 percent of all forest fires are due to natural causes; in all other forest fires, humans are the cause of the fire. Hunters should act preventively against fires and educate others.
How to Prevent Fires
Open fires in the forest should be avoided at all costs. Even smoldering cigarette butts can be enough to ignite a fire in dry vegetation. When hunting, care should be taken with flammable ammunition residues. Above all, hunters must be cautious with their cars - even SUVs and off-road vehicles with increased ground clearance can ignite dry grass underneath the vehicle. The reason for this is the very hot catalytic converter. This should be considered not only before approaching the hunting stand; after a successful hunt, many hunters forget to pay attention to the environment. A dry wild meadow can also catch fire if driven on for retrieving game. Additionally, one should ensure that access routes in the forest are kept clear in case rescue teams or fire brigades need to enter the forest.
Public Awareness
As a hunter, one should raise awareness among their private acquaintances; many forest visitors are not even aware of the danger they pose. This particularly concerns dog owners during the breeding and rearing season who do not adhere to the leash requirement, and in summer, it is often careless day-trippers who unknowingly endanger the forest through their behavior. Therefore, hunters should engage with and educate others.
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