Urgent warning

Danger of forest fires is acute

Forest warden legend Markus "Graf" Hoyos is also concerned.

(Bild: Imre Antal)

A single spark could be enough to turn the green fir into a blazing inferno! Because biotopes are as dry as tinder - forest rangers and federal forests are issuing an urgent warning.

The end of winter and the beginning of spring are among the most risky times for forest fires. The cause of the danger is the dried out biomass from the previous year. Even a little carelessness can be enough to start a forest fire," explains Konrad Mylius, President of the Main Association of Austrian Agriculture and Forestry.

Federal forests also warn
Together with Andreas Gruber, head of the Austrian Federal Forestry Office, he therefore calls for particular vigilance. Even a spark - or a carelessly discarded cigarette - can trigger a fire with serious consequences. Both have drawn up a catalog of dangers. Central appeals: It is best not to have an open fire near woodland and not to park cars on dry grass, as exhaust systems or catalytic converters can all too easily ignite dry grass or biomass.

 Campfires, torches and candles prohibited
As a reminder: campfires, candles and torches are strictly prohibited deep in the forest! The highest warning level has therefore been declared in the districts of Mödling and Baden. Throwing away cigarette butts that may still be glowing is strictly forbidden and punishable by a fine of 7270 euros.

"GeoSphere Austria" warns of an intensification. This is because some regions are approaching previous drought records in terms of rainfall.