“The forest is drying out before our eyes.” Foresters issue a warning ahead of the May holiday – one spark is all it takes

Sunny weather and a lack of rainfall, which for many mean ideal conditions for relaxation, are cause for concern among foresters. As Nadleśnictwo Bolesławiec emphasizes, the situation in the forests of Lower Silesia is currently exceptionally difficult.

The forest floor resembles dry paper, young trees are losing their flexibility, and watercourses and streams have completely dried up in many places. Water reservoirs did not replenish after the winter as they had in previous years. All this means that the fire risk has reached its highest level.

🚒 More and more fires already at the start of the season

Although the fire season is only just beginning, the statistics are already alarming. Last year, only one fire was recorded in the forest district. This year, there have already been three, covering a total of more than 6,000 square meters of forest.

The example of Nadleśnictwo Wałbrzych is also alarming, as around three hectares of forest burned there in recent days. The cause was a small campfire and a moment of carelessness – proof of how easily tragedy can occur under current conditions.

🚁 Drones, aircraft and patrols. Foresters on full alert

To counter the threat, Lasy Państwowe conduct round-the-clock monitoring of forest areas. Fire lookout towers, ground patrols, as well as aerial observation using drones and aircraft are being used.

This makes it possible to detect fires quickly and respond immediately. However, as foresters emphasize, even the best systems cannot replace responsible behavior by people visiting forests.

⚠️ Appeal to tourists: no fire in the forest

In connection with the upcoming May holiday, foresters are making an unambiguous appeal: completely refrain from using open flames. This applies not only to campfires, but also to barbecues – even near forest areas.

If you notice smoke or fire, immediately notify the services by calling the emergency number 112. The mBDL app may also be helpful, as it allows users to quickly determine the exact location and send it to the uniformed officers.

🌳 A forest grows for years but burns in minutes

Experts remind us that rebuilding a destroyed forest takes decades. Meanwhile, under current conditions, a moment of carelessness is all it takes for fire to get out of control.

A safe May holiday break in the forest is possible – provided the rules are followed. This year, every visitor’s responsibility is especially important.

(Headline: archival photograph).