Hikers walking across the heath near Blaricum this afternoon saw the smoke clouds from the fire about seventy kilometers away. “It even stinks here,” one man said.
They are concerned about a possible wildfire around their corner. A local resident: “We have had fires in Laren near the heath before. I don’t know how that happens, but perhaps people are not aware of it and perhaps sit together in the evening or throw away a cigarette somewhere.”
Forest rangers make extra rounds
Director of the Goois Nature Reserve (GNR) Carla Kersbergen tells NH Radio that she is shocked by the enormous wildfire. “That is one of the fears you have as a nature reserve in such a period of drought and with a lot of wind.” Forest rangers will make extra rounds in the near future to check for starting fires.
A wildfire could have enormous consequences in the Gooi, because it is a densely populated area. “The Goois Nature Reserve is surrounded by villages and is therefore vulnerable. But then you often have an observant resident detect something so that it can be nipped in the bud.”
According to Kersbergen, Gooi’s nature can withstand a blow. The area is known for its beautiful heathlands, which are recovering quickly, according to Kersbergen. “In the past, heathland was sometimes burned down on purpose to allow it to recover nicely, but in forest areas this would take much longer.”
Smoking ban in nature
The Gooise fire brigade has been taking wildfires into account for some time. They often practice on it and were introduced two years ago purchased new carsspecifically aimed at fighting such fires.
To reduce the risk of wildfires, Hilversum politicians will introduce a smoking ban in Hilversum’s nature from next year.
