Warning issued by firefighters in Bedburg-Hau about potential instances of weed fires
In the towns of Dinslaken and Bedburg-Hau, two separate incidents have served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by using gas torches for weed control during dry conditions. On August 11 and August 12, 2025, hedges caught fire in both towns due to the use of gas torches to burn weeds.
The Volunteer Fire Department Bedburg-Hau and Dinslaken Fire Department were quick to respond, managing to contain the fires without significant damage or injury. However, community fire chief Tobias Lamers from Bedburg-Hau emphasizes the potential risks, stating that it only takes a small spark or heat to cause a fire because the plants are currently so dry.
Firefighters in both locations have issued warnings about the risk of using gas torches for weed control during dry conditions. They caution that even a single spark can ignite dry vegetation, triggering rapidly spreading wildfires. The key risks include igniting dry grass, leaves, or other vegetation, causing uncontrollable fires; rapid fire spread propelled by dry weather and wind; and potential damage to surrounding areas and properties.
To prevent such incidents, firefighters and similar authorities recommend several safety precautions. During periods of drought or fire restrictions, they advise against using gas torches or open flames outdoors. They also urge residents to observe local fire restriction regulations, which often include bans on welding, cutting, or flame-producing appliances when fire danger is elevated.
Being vigilant to environmental conditions such as wind speed and dryness before any activity involving heat or flames is also crucial. Proper disposal of any ignition sources and avoiding their use near dry vegetation or forested areas is equally important.
These precautions align with fire restriction policies seen in other locations, where using gas or liquid-fueled devices that generate sparks or flames is banned during high fire risk periods to prevent wildfires.
In summary, the fires in Dinslaken and Bedburg-Hau highlight the unsafe nature of using gas torches for weed control in dry conditions and underscore the importance of adhering to fire safety rules and local restrictions to protect life and property.
On the output of the Volunteer Fire Department Bedburg-Hau and Dinslaken Fire Department, they advised the community to closely monitor the weather news, considering the high risk of wildfires during dry periods. Moreover, access to the latest weather information could help residents decide whether or not it's safe to use gas torches for weed control.
