Behaviour to adopt
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:
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Find out about the danger of fire locally if you intend to light a fire outdoors.
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Always comply with fire bans.
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Heed information provided on the internet, radio, television and in newspapers.
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Never light a fire outdoors in strong or gusty wind.
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Never throw away burning cigarettes or matches.
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Only barbecue food in permanent fire places (concreted base. Avoid whenever possible camp fires directly on the ground).
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Keep an eye on the fire at all times and immediately extinguish any stray sparks.
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Do not leave barbecues/fire places and their vicinity until the fire has been completely extinguished.
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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 to the fire service by calling the number 118.
- 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
- by e-mail or by completing a form online
- by phone
- by 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 (Stiftung zur Prävention von Gebäudeschäden / Fondation de prevention pour les dommages immobiliés ).