Despite some rainfall, the forests in southern Hesse remain heavily stressed after a long dry spell
Even though there has been some rain in recent days, the risk of forest fires remains high in parts of southern Hesse. This warning comes from the Darmstadt Regional Council (RP), the responsible higher forestry authority. The rainfall has not been sufficient to compensate for the effects of the prolonged drought. Many forest soils remain exceptionally dry.
"Even after the recent rainfall, the risk of forest fires remains high in some areas. I urge all forest visitors to act responsibly and contribute to the protection of our forests," explains Regional President Prof. Dr. Jan Hilligardt. He adds that anyone who heeds forest fire warnings and acts prudently makes an important contribution to protecting the forests.
Many forest fires are caused by humans
According to the regional government, most forest fires are caused by human behavior – such as arson, discarded cigarettes or carelessness.
Smoking in the forest is generally prohibited. Due to the increased risk, public barbecue areas and fire pits near forests have already been closed in many places. Even independently of official alert levels, municipalities can implement additional measures such as closures.
It is also particularly important to keep forest access roads clear. These serve as essential access routes for fire and rescue services in case of emergency. Any smoke or fire should be reported immediately by calling the emergency number 112
This is how forest fires can be avoided
The regional government office provides the following information:
- No open fires or barbecues in the forest
- No smoking in the forest
- Do not park vehicles on dry grass
- Do not leave any trash in nature
- Pay attention to current forest fire warnings
The Darmstadt Regional Council is responsible as the higher forestry authority for the Darmstadt administrative district and works together with the local forestry offices of the state-owned enterprise HessenForst.
(DARMSTADT – RED/RPDA)
