Fire brigade in action: fire and accident concern Jahrstedt!
Current reports from the Altmarkkreis Salzwedel: fires, traffic accidents and preventive measures for traffic safety.

Fire brigade in action: fire and accident concern Jahrstedt!
On June 12, 2025, there were several security-related incidents in the region that brought both the fire department and the police onto the scene. A fire in Jahrstedt and a serious traffic accident in Salzwedel caused considerable effort.
The fire, which broke out at 3:35 p.m. on the edge of the forest in Jahrstedt, caused 21 volunteers from the volunteer fire department to deploy with 6 vehicles. The flames spread in a controlled manner over an area of approximately 20 x 20 meters, causing four-digit damage to property. The exact cause of the fire is currently being determined. One aspect that often leads to similar incidents is flammable work that can be carried out with improper handling or a lack of protection. According to the Brandschutz-Zentrale, activities such as welding or soldering in craft businesses and hobby situations are often the cause of fires.
Accident on the B71 causes complete closure
At the same time, police received reports of a traffic accident on the B71 that occurred at 5:50 p.m. An 85-year-old man who was driving a Peugeot crossed into oncoming traffic for reasons that are still unclear. This resulted in a collision with a Kia in which a 57-year-old woman was sitting. Due to the force of the collision, the Kia was then thrown into an oncoming Opel driven by a 31-year-old man.
The two occupants who were sitting in the Kia and Opel suffered minor injuries and had to be taken to the hospital in Salzwedel. All vehicles were no longer drivable, which required a tow away. The material damage is estimated at a mid-five-figure amount, and the B71 had to be completely closed for around 45 minutes. An expensive pleasure for all parties involved, and an important reminder not to lose sight of road safety.
Traffic controls and upcoming prevention measures
On the same day, the authorities carried out speed checks in Kunrau and Arendsee. During the inspection in Kunrau, 55 vehicles were checked, with one driver being caught driving at 69 km/h in a 50 zone, while in Arendsee two drivers even drove 77 km/h at a permitted 50 km/h.
To make the streets safer, the Salzwedel police station announced a control week under the motto “Alcohol and Drugs”, which will take place from June 16th to 22nd. The aim of this campaign is to increase road safety and minimize possible risks. Last year there were 52 traffic accidents under the influence of alcohol and drugs in the Altmarkkreis Salzwedel, which underlines the urgency of such measures.
Finally, on June 15th, a prevention mobile from the State Criminal Police Office will be on site in Kalbe and will offer anyone interested the opportunity to receive free advice on topics such as burglary and theft protection. Take the opportunity to learn about important security measures you can take to protect your home!