Fires: 6 essential actions to prevent forest fires

All too often fires are of unintentional origin and can therefore be avoided. To put an end to these devastating fires, a number of essential measures must be taken. Among other things, the ban on cigarettes or campfires in the middle of the forest…

Don’t smoke in the woods

We keep repeating it, but smoking in the forest is forbidden and can have terrible consequences, especially during drought. If you walk in the forest massifs (or elsewhere, out of respect for nature), don’t throw away your cigarette butts to the ground. The same goes for motorists who would be tempted to throw their cigarettes out the window.

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Do not make a fire near a forest

Are you traveling with a backpack and are you looking for a quiet spot in the forest to pitch your tent? Know that the campfire is strictly prohibited and a fine of 135 euros which can be increased in case of liability for damage to others. The Forest Code recalls that this prohibition applies to: “inland and up to 200 meters from woods, forests, plantations, heathland and maquis”.

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Do not use power tools that can cause sparks in an explosive atmosphere

Using a sharpener, hacksaw, or other power tools that can cause sparks in the middle of the forest or surrounding area is a thoughtless and irresponsible act. And rightly so, without you realizing it, you can get into a risk zone and cause a fire as a result. Yes, a simple spark is sometimes responsible for a gigantic fire.

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Watch out for the BBQ

In some municipalities and departments, charcoal barbecue is prohibitedt if your home is located less than 200 meters from a forest area. And rightly so, it can cause fires, especially in drought conditions. In this case, it is recommended to use a plancha or a gas barbecue. Always keep an eye on the heat when grilling vegetables, meat and fish.

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Do not plant flammable plants

A number of plants are flammable and therefore have a risk to wild flora. This is especially the case for fraxinel (dictamnus albus), bamboo (bamboo), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), etc. So do your research before planting anything in your yard, especially if you live near a risk area.

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Do not store fuel near your home

Finally, he is strongly discouraged to save firewood, paint, solvents, gas or fuel tanks near your home if you live in a risk zone. These combustibles can cause a fire and/or cause more damage if there is already a fire.

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Valuable gestures to prevent new environmental disasters. Moving on, here’s why feeding wild animals during a fire is a false good idea.

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