What are the right actions to avoid starting a forest fire?

Droughts, as well as heatwaves, are increasingly frequent and intense in France due to climate change. When vegetation is dried up by a lack of rain, a fire start becomes possible and it can spread quickly. You can help prevent wildfires and vegetation by taking action to be vigilant.

What preventive measures should be taken?

In order to avoid fire, it is important to:

• to inform you about the fire risks the department in which you are located (in particular with the Forest weather set up by Météo-France);
• to throw your butts in an ashtray, and during periods of fire risk, especially not to smoke in woods and forests;
• store your flammable materials and products (wood, gas cylinders...) in a closed shelter, away from any dwelling;
• to carry out your DIY works and activities away from a lawn or dry grass, and have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water at hand in case of fire;
• organize your barbecues on a terrace which is not made of wood, and away from vegetation;
• clearing your land as well as the area around your home before the summer season, and remove plant debris from roofs and gutters.

What to do in case of fire?

If you witness a fire start, it is recommended:

• to locate the fire without putting you in danger ;
• alert emergency services by calling 112 (European emergency number), on 18 (fire) or 114 (number dedicated to deaf and hard of hearing people);
• to take shelter in a cleared house while waiting for emergency assistance (the car is not a safe shelter because it could burn);
• retract your garden hose before the fire arrives (it can be used after the fire to extinguish the last embers), and leave your gate open to facilitate access by firefighters if necessary;
• clog with wet cloths the vents and doorstools of the house in which you are located, so that toxic fumes and flames can not penetrate inside;
• Put damp laundry on your nose and mouth to protect yourself from smoke before helping others do the same;
• to remain informed of the situation, and to follow the instructions given by the emergency services or the town hall.

What sanctions for a person who causes a fire?

If you are at the origin of the fire of a wood, forest or moors, you incur criminal sanctions.

• In case of involuntary violation of an obligation of prudence or security, the maximum penalty is 2 years in prison and a fine of €30,000 (in case of death of one or more persons, the maximum penalty is increased to 7 years in prison and a fine of €100,000).
• In the case of a manifestly deliberate breach of a duty of care or security, the maximum penalty is 3 years' imprisonment and a fine of €45,000 (in the case of the death of one or more persons, the maximum penalty is increased to 10 years' imprisonment and a fine of €150,000).