Fire risk due to drought
The Flemish Agency for Nature and Forests has placed several nature areas on red or orange alert. So watch out for the colour codes before you go for a walk in the woods and nature reserves.
Colour code of the Flemish Agency:
Green: little risk. In case of fire the fire brigade will intervene with normal means.
YELLOW: Danger. Nature reserves are becoming drier, which increases the risk of fire. Managers and fire brigades are vigilant.
ORANGE: High danger. It is very dry and flammable. Caution: Do not smoke in nature reserves and forests. Do not leave children playing unsupervised. Managers and fire brigades are extremely vigilant. In the event of a fire, the fire brigade will have to call in additional equipment and personnel. Watchtowers are manned throughout the day.
RED: Extremely high risk. It is extremely dry and flammable. For safety reasons, access to the area (forest, natural area, ...) is not recommended. Managers and fire brigades are very vigilant. If a fire breaks out, the fire brigade will have to use a lot of equipment, and call for reinforcements in terms of equipment and personnel. The fire towers are occupied all day.
SOME TIPS
Check the information signs at the entrances to the natural areas or on the commune's website.
In times of increased fire risk, we ask everyone to be vigilant and attentive!
- It is forbidden to light fires or throw cigarette butts!
- It is forbidden to light a fire, campfire, torches, ... in or near a wood.
- Be aware that all vegetation is dried out - also in gardens and fields.
Be very careful:
- when working with open flames or sparks.
- If you light a barbecue, even in your own garden or in an authorised area!
For more information:
Agence flamande Natuur en bosgebieden https://www.natuurenbos.be/brandpreventie-natuur-en-bosgebieden-op-basis-van-kleurcodes
Checklist for using a barbecue 
checklist_bbq_2015_fr_2.pdf
Guideline CFPA-E 6 2015N Forest fires - cfpa_e_guideline_no_6_2015_n_forest_fires.pdf
