Danger of forest fires in Saxony: Highest alert level looming this weekend!

Danger of forest fires in Saxony: Highest alert level looming this weekend!

Summer is also causing burning concerns in Saxony: the state-owned Sachsenforst company is warning of a high risk of forest fires for the coming weekend. The situation is particularly critical on the Saxon-Brandenburg state border, where the risk of forest fires reached level four on Saturday. The following Sunday, the northern parts of the districts of North Saxony, Meißen, Bautzen, Görlitz and the city of Dresden are likely to reach the highest danger level of five. freipresse.de describes that the remaining regions of Saxony must expect danger levels three and four.

What are the causes of this alarming situation? Humans are the main cause of forest fires, as State Forestry President Utz Hempfling emphasizes. Last year, around three quarters of all fires were started by humans. Against the background of low rainfall, high temperatures and dry winds, the top layer of soil has now dried out and is therefore particularly at risk.

Rules for forest visitors

So what is the best way to deal with this situation? Forest visitors are asked to be particularly attentive and to follow all rules. The use of open fires in the forest is prohibited all year round - no matter how low the risk of forest fire is. Not only are campfires and barbecues prohibited, but smoking is also prohibited. According to the Forest Act for the Free State of Saxony (Section 15 SächsWaldG), the regulations must be strictly adhered to and violations can be punished with fines. wald.sachsen.de emphasizes that lighting open fires at a distance of 100 meters from the forest is only permitted with permission.

For those who still want to experiment: Since October 1, 2009, even releasing sky lanterns has been banned in the Free State of Saxony. Compliance with these regulations is monitored by the municipalities, and unauthorized sky lanterns can result in fines of up to 1,000 euros. In order to protect the forests and the flora and fauna that live in them, it is crucial to stick to the rules.

Legal requirements for forest ownership

A look at the Saxon Forest Act shows the diverse provisions that not only focus on nature conservation, but are also intended to ensure the economic and ecological function of the forest. revosax.sachsen.de emphasizes that forest areas are not only used for recreation, but also serve as useful and protective areas. Interested forest owners can find support here to develop a good hand in forestry.

In addition, the law makes it clear that in the event of a fire, the fire department must be informed on the emergency number 112. The forestry authorities are responsible for ensuring compliance with these regulations. They also draw attention to possible dangers to the forest and order protective measures.

In the coming period, anyone who wants to venture into the forest should pay close attention. It is not worth being careless because the risk of forest fires is high. Stay safe and take care of nature!