Natural fires
A wildfire is a natural area, such as a forest area, moorland, dune area or moorland that is on fire. Forest fire is the best known form of wildfire because it is the most intense and visible form.
Within our municipality we have a large contiguous nature reserve called the Stippelberg nature reserve.
Fact sheets
Natural fire phase
The fire department and wildlife organizations work with two wildfire phases to indicate the risk phase in which a wildfire is likely to occur. Phase 'regular risk' (1) is as always: be careful with fire in nature. In phase 'extra alert' (2) we ask residents and recreationists to be extra alert for the occurrence of (natural) fire. On the website of you can see which phase applies in your region.
Tips to prevent a wildfire
- Be careful with open fires in or near nature. Stoking a fire pit or barbecuing is often only allowed in special picnic and fire areas or with permission from the site owner on ample paved or sandy ground.
- When setting fires or barbecuing, keep fire extinguishers handy: a bucket of water, a garden hose, fire extinguisher or fire blanket.
- Never make open fires during dry periods.
- Do not smoke in nature, especially when it is dry.
- Dispose of trash in the bins provided. Trash can be the cause of fire. A glass bottle that the sun shines on can act as a magnifying glass and set dry plants or grass on fire.
- Do not park your car (with hot catalytic converter) in high and dry grass.
- Be extra vigilant in heath and pine forest.
- Comply with the applicable rules in the natural area, community or vacation property. Check the Nature Risk website at for current risk.
You can find more information on the fire department's website.