Hundreds of firefighters train to fight dangerous forest fires!

Hundreds of firefighters train to fight dangerous forest fires!

In the Lüneburg district, Lower Saxony, hundreds of firefighters came together today to practice fighting forest fires under real conditions. Over 500 emergency services, including fire departments from various municipalities as well as the technical relief agency and the state forestry department, took part in this important exercise in the Göhrde forest area. A real fire was intentionally lit to optimally prepare the emergency services for the challenges of fighting forest fires. State fire brigade President Olaf Kapke emphasizes the growing risk of forest fires, which is exacerbated by climate change.

The exercise was meticulously prepared, using special forest fire tankers, an aircraft and a helicopter. In addition, cooperation with an observation aircraft was tested. Aircraft from the Lower Saxony Fire Brigade Air Service support the investigation and early detection of vegetation fires so that rapid action can be taken in the event of an emergency. Kapke warns of the ongoing drought and high temperatures, which further increase the risk of forest fires in Lower Saxony.

Preventive measures and rules of conduct

A look at current weather conditions shows that the German Weather Service's forest fire danger index is showing high warning levels for this weekend, with level 5 in certain areas. The Ministry of Agriculture and the State Fire Brigade Association are therefore calling for caution. It is important to be aware of the dangers that can lead to wildfires. As can be read on the website of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection, climate change has significantly increased the risk. The vegetation dries out more and more and thus promotes fires.

From March 1st to October 31st, the fire ban applies in forests, moors and heaths and in their vicinity. An absolute ban on smoking also ensures that the risk of fire is minimized. There are many footsteps in nature that can lead to fires: discarded cigarettes, improper grilling or even intentional arson pose real dangers to our forests. With a little caution and sensitivity, every individual who appreciates nature can help significantly.

Forest fire statistics and development

Although the area of ​​forest fires in Germany decreased significantly between 1991 and 2017, the years 2018 and 2019 show that extreme drought and heat caused the number of fires to increase. The northeastern federal states in particular were not spared. In Brandenburg, where forest fires occur particularly frequently, determining the causes of ignition such as negligent actions is of utmost importance. In addition to the weather-related risks, an analysis by the Federal Environment Agency shows that improved early detection and control have also contributed to the visibility and management of these risks.

Continuous improvement of systems and training of emergency services are crucial. Innovative technologies such as digital sensors for early detection show great progress in forest fire prevention. Increasing attention is now being paid to ensuring that old fire lookout towers are modernized and that nature continues to be protected.

You can also find out about the current forest fire danger index on the German Weather Service website and pay attention to the information provided by the authorities. Together we can ensure that our forests are preserved for future generations.

In summary, climate change is a reality that cannot be ignored and must influence our behavior in dealing with nature. Let's exercise caution and take the necessary precautions to prevent forest fires.

Further information on forest fire prevention can be found on the website of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection and at Federal Environment Agency.