Firefighters maintain vigilance over a blazing bush fire in Bedburg-Hau.

High Fire Danger Warning: Important Safety Measures for Using Gas Burners

During a high grassland fire index warning, often referred to as a Red Flag Warning or extreme fire danger, the use of gas burners or any open flames requires extreme caution or is often prohibited to prevent wildfires. Here are key safety precautions to follow when using gas burners during such conditions:

Avoid using gas burners outdoors in high fire danger conditions unless specifically allowed by local fire restrictions or permits. Many areas prohibit open flames, campfires, or stoves during high fire risk stages to prevent accidental ignition from sparks or embers.
If use is allowed, always maintain a safe, cleared area around the burner, free of dry grass, leaves, or other flammable material. A radius of at least 10 feet cleared of fuels is recommended to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Use spark arresters or screens where possible to prevent sparks escaping from exhaust or flame.
Choose times of day when conditions are less fire-prone, such as early morning rather than midday when temperatures and dryness peak.
Have firefighting tools ready nearby, such as a shovel, fire extinguisher, or water source, to quickly address any accidental ignition.
Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure no leaks, sparks, or malfunctions that could start a fire.
Always check with local fire agencies before using gas burners or conducting any activity involving fire during a high fire danger warning, as restrictions vary and may include complete bans on open flames.
Avoid any activities that can generate sparks, such as welding or grinding, without proper permits and precautions.

In summary, during high grassland fire index warnings, the safest approach is to avoid using gas burners outdoors unless explicitly permitted and then only with strict adherence to fire safety practices, cleared areas, and preparedness to extinguish fires quickly. These precautions help reduce the very high risk of human-caused wildfires during dry, windy, and hot conditions.

It is essential to remember that carelessness can lead to a fire, and a moment of negligence can trigger a major fire. If gas burners must be used, have extinguishing agents readily available, and constant monitoring of the work area is necessary. Stay alert even after the work with gas burners is done to prevent fires.

For more information on local fire restrictions, contact your local fire department or community fire inspector, such as Tobias Lamers in the LVR area. The grassland fire index is at the second highest warning level this week due to the ongoing drought and expected high temperatures, so it's crucial to take these precautions seriously.

In other news, a hedge fire occurred on Grüner Winkel street in the LVR area, Bedburg-Hau, caused by gas burner work. The fire was extinguished before the arrival of the fire department, who then used a thermal imaging camera to control the affected area.

Additionally, a video of two Eurofighters in low flight was reported in Kalkar/Bedburg-Hau, but no further information was provided. In Kleve, more break-ins have been reported during the summer holidays, but no additional details were given.

In a separate incident, a dead baby was found in a trash can, and the mother is currently in custody. No further information was provided about the small animal incident in Bedburg-Hau or the video in Kalkar/Bedburg-Hau.

Due to the ongoing high grassland fire index warning, it is crucial to pay attention to the weather as any sudden changes could increase the fire danger, necessitating even more caution when using gas burners outdoors.
If the weather forecast suggests an increase in wind or dryness during a high fire danger warning, it might be wise to postpone using gas burners until conditions improve, as these factors can contribute to the risk of wildfires.