Wildfire

Think ahead

• For a current wildfire risk, log onto www.natuurbrandrisico.nl (information in Dutch only). 
• Preferably do not smoke in a nature reserve. If you do, put out your cigarette carefully before throwing it away. Pay attention to whether there might be a smoking ban.
• Throw rubbish in the bin. The sun shining on a piece of glass can cause a fire.
• Observe the rules for barbecuing, making a campfire or lighting a fire basket.
• Always follow the instructions of the authorities. 
• Pay attention to where you park your car. The catalytic converter, which is often at the bottom, gets very hot. If you park your car in dry, tall grass, it may catch fire as a result.
• Do not park on forest paths; fire engines should always have a clear path.

Near a wildfire?

• Call 112 to report the location of the fire as precisely as possible.
• Do not wait for help. Flee as quickly and far away from the fire as possible.
• Warn and help others to get to a safe place.
• Do not run in front of the fire or in the direction of the fire, but flee perpendicular to the fire. This will reduce the chance of the fire catching up with you.

Government actions

• Terrain owners, the fire brigade and KNMI (Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute) monitor the situation in the country during the drought season and take measures if necessary. 
• KNMI warns of extreme drought.
• The fire brigade is supported by Ministry of Defence fire-fighting helicopters during large wildfires. 
• Agreements have been made with all organisations involved so that they know what to do if uncontrollable wildfires occur. 
• The government is working on a national programme aimed at making nature more resilient to the risk of wildfires.