Press releases

With the current spell of very hot and dry weather, the risk of wildfires and grass fires is increasing. The German Weather Service’s (DWD) wildfire risk index for our region is currently at Level 3 (out of 5), while the grassland fire index is as high as Level 4. The City of Aachen therefore asks that you exercise extreme caution, especially when handling open flames, such as when barbecuing. Barbecuing in public spaces is permitted only in areas specifically designated for this purpose and in compliance with the rules. For more information, click here: Barbecue Areas in Aachen | City of Aachen

The city also points out that smoking and open fires in the forest are strictly prohibited! The smoking ban applies throughout North Rhine-Westphalia from March 1 through October 31; open fires are prohibited year-round. The city’s forestry office emphasizes: Over 90 percent of forest fires are not caused by natural factors. It is therefore all the more important that visitors to the forest adhere to the applicable rules and exercise caution while out and about in the popular Öcher Bösch and all other forested areas in Aachen.

If you see smoke while out for a walk or spot a fire in a natural area, you should immediately call the fire department by dialing the emergency number 112. When reporting the fire, you can use the signposted emergency points in the forest as a guide. If it is safe to do so, you should wait for the emergency responders and direct them to the scene.

In addition, the Aachen Fire Department recommends that people exercise caution, especially during periods of prolonged drought. This includes, among other things:

• Avoid open fires: Do not build campfires or use grills outside of designated areas. Even small flames can quickly get out of control when the grass is dry.
• Don't throw away cigarettes: It sounds trivial, but it's one of the most common causes. A lit cigarette can instantly set dry vegetation on fire—especially when it's windy.
• Be careful when barbecuing in the garden or park: Keep a safe distance from hedges, dry grass, and trees; watch out for flying sparks; place disposable grills only on concrete, gravel, or a raised, heat-resistant surface; always have water or a fire extinguisher within reach; and completely extinguish the embers (don’t just leave them there)
• Don't leave any glass lying around in nature: Broken glass can act like a magnifying glass and ignite dry vegetation (even though this is rare, it cannot be ruled out).
• Don't park your car on dry grass: The hot catalytic converter can set the grass underneath on fire—this happens more often than you might think.
• Be careful when doing farm and yard work: Tools such as brush cutters or angle grinders can produce sparks. It’s best to avoid using them in dry conditions or to be especially careful.

The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance has compiled information on wildfires in a flyer.

For more information about the Öcher Bösch and how to behave appropriately and respectfully in the forest, visit www.aachen.de/wald.