Here is where the risk of forest fires is currently particularly high
Despite increased rainfall in recent days and not too pronounced dryness, there is still a risk of forest fires in parts of Burgenland, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Tyrol, and Styria. Therefore, corresponding forest fire regulations have been issued in these areas.
Forest Fire Risk in Austria: Already 160 Documented Forest Fires This Year
This regulation was already enacted by the district authorities at the beginning of the year. As a result, lighting fires and smoking in and near the forest is completely prohibited in the following regions to protect people, animals, and nature. Since the beginning of the year, there have been around 160 documented forest fires in Austria by the end of July, with a total burned area of 56 hectares. Affected areas in Burgenland include the districts of Güssing, Jennersdorf, Neusiedl am See, Mattersburg, Eisenstadt-Umgebung, Oberpullendorf, and Oberwart; in Lower Austria, the districts of Bruck an der Leitha, Mödling, Baden, Neunkirchen, Gänserndorf, Hollabrunn, Horn, Melk, Mistelbach, Waidhofen an der Ybbs, Waidhofen an der Thaya, Gmünd, Scheibbs, Tulln, Korneuburg, Lilienfeld, Krems an der Donau, Krems-Stadt, St. Pölten, as well as St. Pölten Stadt and Zwettl; in Upper Austria, the districts of Kirchdorf, Wels-Land, Wels-Stadt, Eferding, Grieskirchen, Vöcklabruck, Gmunden, Steyr-Land and Stadt Steyr, Rohrbach, Urfahr-Umgebung, Perg, Freistadt, Schärding, Braunau, and Ried; in Tyrol, the districts of Landeck, Imst, and Kufstein; and in Styria, the districts of Voitsberg, Murau, Liezen, and Murtal.
Careful Handling of Fire Advised
Furthermore, careful handling of fire is generally advised throughout Austria. For example, it is forbidden to simply throw away burning or still smoldering items like cigarettes or matches. Additionally, according to the Forestry Act, only those who are expressly authorized may make a fire in and near the forest. "More than eight out of ten forest fires are caused by humans. Anyone in the forest has the obligation to behave responsibly," said the Minister of Agriculture, Norbert Totschnig (ÖVP). "Enjoy your time in the forest, but please strictly adhere to the five simple rules of conduct. This way, you can prevent disasters."
Smoking should not occur in the forest. The embers from tobacco products or carelessly discarded cigarettes can trigger fires. No fires should be lit either. Campfires, barbecue fires, and the spreading of ash or embers in or near the forest can get out of control. Caution is also advised when handling traditional fires and fireworks near forests. Flying sparks can ignite the dry vegetation and cause a forest fire. Official bans in particularly forest fire-prone areas must be strictly observed, and violations can be punished with fines of up to 7,270 euros or imprisonment for up to four weeks. If a fire occurs, the fire department must be informed immediately by calling 122.
(APA/Red)
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