Highest risk of forest fires in Wittenberg: Forbidden paths and fires!

Highest risk of forest fires in Wittenberg: Forbidden paths and fires!

In today's forest fire season we have reached an alarming record: For the first time, the highest forest fire danger level of 5 has been declared for the Wittenberg district. This means that the public is now prohibited from entering the forest paths. The second highest danger level of 4 already applies in Anhalt-Bitterfeld and the city of Dessau-Roßlau, while in other parts of Saxony-Anhalt the situation is still comparatively mild with a danger level of 3. These details can be found in the reporting by faz.net.

A look at the past few years shows that the highest danger level 5 only accounted for around 2.6 percent of all forest fire warnings in Saxony-Anhalt last year. In 2024, however, this level was already reached in May, which underlines the urgency of the current situation. In the Altmark and the Stendal region, however, severe weather has significantly reduced the risk of forest fires, which is a relief for the people in these areas.

Rules in the forest

But it's not just the grading of forest fire risks that's important; dealing with open fires is also very important. There is a strict ban on lighting fires in the forest all year round, including smoking, barbecuing and releasing sky lanterns. This can be traced back to the Saxon Forest Act (Section 15 SächsWaldG), which sets strict rules to prevent forest fires. Refusals can be punished as administrative offenses and can be punished with fines of up to 1,000 euros.

Dry ground vegetation is particularly at risk of catching fire quickly. It is therefore forbidden to drive on forest paths with motor vehicles. To ensure safety in the forest, access routes must not be blocked as they are essential for rescue operations. In the event of a fire, you should immediately inform the fire department on number 112 to avoid more serious damage.

Forest law and its meaning

The regulations in the Saxon Forest Act are clear and of great relevance for all forest visitors. The aim of this law is to preserve the forest in its economic and ecological function and at the same time balance the interests of the forest owners and the general public. It also defines exactly what is meant by a forest and sets clear framework conditions for forestry.

There are also requirements for forest owners, such as the need for sustainable management. Measures to protect against forest fires are also anchored in the law; The forestry authorities are responsible for implementing and monitoring the corresponding protective measures. These laws are not just regulations, they are important for all of us to preserve the beauties of our forests and protect our ecosystem.

Given the current situation, it is advisable to find out about the applicable regulations and take them seriously. Ultimately, it's about everyone's safety and protecting our valuable forest. So let’s stay vigilant and responsible – nature will thank us!