Service Navigation
Search
General recommendations before a forest fire
The forest fire risk indicates the probability of a forest fire occurring. The risk can be exacerbated e.g. by people engaging in leisure activities, so that action needs to be taken even if the danger of a forest fire is low. Lighting fires, both in and outside the forest, always calls for due caution to be exercised – even if the danger of a forest fire is low or moderate.
You can help to prevent forest fires by observing the following general code of conduct:
Find out about the danger of fire locally if you intend to light a fire outdoors.
Always comply with fire bans.
Heed information provided on the internet, radio, television and in newspapers.
Never light a fire outdoors in strong or gusty wind.
Never throw away burning cigarettes or matches.
Only barbecue food in permanent fire places (concreted base. Avoid whenever possible camp fires directly on the ground).
Keep an eye on the fire at all times and immediately extinguish any stray sparks.
Do not leave barbecues/fire places and their vicinity until the fire has been completely extinguished.
Fireworks are to be let off only in places expressly approved by the local authorities.
General recommendations during a forest fire
While a forest fire is burning, avoid any kind of panic, act calmly and exercise good judgment. Follow the sequence: raise alarm – rescue – extinguish. Fires outdoors develop and behave differently from fires in enclosed spaces. So do not try to be a hero; follow the instructions of the local fire service and forestry workers.
The local fire service or forestry agency is responsible for combating forest fires. They generally have fire-fighting plans and regional bases with forest fire-fighting equipment.
Raise alarm
Report forest fires immediately by calling 118 (fire service).
Warn people who could be endangered by the fire.
Rescue
Rescue people and animals.
Use blankets or coats to wrap around people whose clothes are burning (roll them on the ground and cool with water).
Vacate the scene of the fire.
Extinguish
Do not take any risks.
Follow the instructions of the local fire service and forestry service.
General recommendations after a forest fire
Following a forest fire, any damage should be assessed and reported so that it can be removed or repaired as soon as possible. The following points should be observed.
Immediately notify the buildings insurer of damage to buildings:
E-mail or by completing a form online
Phone
Completing a printed form
Proceed as follows when rectifying damage:
Do not remove damaged parts of buildings, fixtures, fittings or furniture until they have been inspected by the insurance experts (unless immediate action is essential).
Obtain an estimate for any repairs or rebuilding work necessary (buildings insurers reserve the right to procure alternative quotes).
Together with the loss adjuster, examine possible measures to prevent future losses (if appropriate, submit a grant application to the Foundation for the Prevention of Damage to Buildings.