Drama in Schildow: Kindergarten in flames - the cause of the fire solar system?

Drama in Schildow: Kindergarten in flames - the cause of the fire solar system?

Schildow, Deutschland - On July 11, 2025, a fire in Schildow caused a sensation when a photovoltaic system on the roof of a kindergarten opened on fire. The roof structure and parts of the upper floor burned out, which raised questions about the safety of solar systems again. District fire chief Gerd Ritter warns, however: "Solar systems are not more dangerous than refrigerators", as the MAZ-Online reported. Despite the comprehensive debate about fire protection, the statistics are promising-in 2024 there were only 120 fires in Germany that were connected to photovoltaic systems.

What is behind the numbers? The Solar system guide Weiß: Of the approximately 2.0 million PV systems in Germany, only 0.006 % fires cause fires. Although a third of these fires are due to errors in planning or installation, regular maintenance of the systems can help minimize risks. Ritter recommends checking PV systems thoroughly every four years.

security measures and research

The risks of dealing with photovoltaic systems were also examined by research. The Fraunhofer ISE has initiated a comprehensive research project that evaluates the arc risks and other fire threats from PV systems. In this context, special colored arches were tested, which can quickly switch off a potentially dangerous development. In addition, the focus is on the training of firefighters to ensure their security when operating.

In addition, it is important to think of the dangers that are based on burning solar modules. These can release toxic heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, which is problematic for both the environment and the health of residents. A proper installation and maintenance is therefore essential to minimize fire.

from Waldhausen to Oranienburg - Current topics

While the discussion about fire protection continues from PV systems, there are also other important topics in the region. An alternative location for a new hospital in Oranienburg was rejected on a former airfield site. The reasons included nuisance of noise and odors as well as contaminated sites from the military past of the site. Instead, the planning for construction on Robert-Koch-Straße will continue after the district council decided in April 2024 to close the Hennigsdorfer hospital.

Another point that deals with local politics are the fees for refugees. The district council decided to request 550 euros per month for places in shared accommodation. Currently over 600 places are occupied by people without claiming accommodation, which underlines the need for this decision.

Curioses can also be reported from the animal world, where the Bulldogge Rosalie from Borgsdorf came into contact with a cran. Veterinarians advise you not to hesitate in such incidents and quickly see a doctor, especially in the warmest season.