Checks on smoking bans in nature reserves

We went with a forest ranger to the dune forests in De Haan.

Danger of wildfire

“Look, all those grasses are already bone dry. You also see sea buckthorn. It is so dry that it easily snaps. If a spark comes on, this is really a torch, isn’t it,” says forester Koen Maréchal.

It is obvious. Although it has been less warm by the sea in recent weeks than in the province, there is also a risk of wildfire in the dunes. “The sand, that dune sand, can absorb the heat completely and then release it again.”

And that is why forest ranger Koen, like his colleagues throughout Flanders, is extra vigilant and informs visitors of the dangers of this warm weather.

“I would like to point out that you should think carefully about everything you do. No fires, no smoking, no barbecues,” the forester says to visitors.

Focus on awareness

Depending on the facts, a reminder will be issued, whether orally or in writing. A report can also be drawn up. But that’s not the focus at all. The focus is really on raising awareness, on raising awareness.