From 1er In June 2023, Météo France will publish the “ Forest weather " to keep the French public informed about the fire risk level in mainland France. Service-Public.fr introduces you to the principles of this new tool.
Why launch a Forest Weather service?
As a result of climate change, most of mainland France is vulnerable to forest and wildfires. Nine out of ten fires are caused by humans, and most are started through carelessness. Météo France, with the support of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion, is launching ‘Météo des forêts’ this summer – a map showing, on a daily basis, the fire risk level by department for the following day and the day after that.
The Forest Weather Forecast will indicate the fire danger level using a four-colour scale that everyone can understand:
- green : risk low ;
- yellow : risk moderate ;
- orange : risk high ;
- red : risk very high.
Aim of the scheme: to inform and raise awareness amongst the French public about the risk of fires so that they adopt the right habits to prevent fires from starting, particularly in identified high-risk areas.
How is the Forest Weather Forecast produced?
Weather conditions have a significant influence on the susceptibility of vegetation to fire and on the spread of a fire once it has broken out. The Forest Weather Forecast is produced by Météo France based on observations and forecasts of various meteorological parameters (temperature, rainfall, wind speed, air humidity) and the dryness of the vegetation.
How can you prevent fires from starting?
Fire and barbecue
I organise barbecues at my place, on the terrace and well away from any vegetation that might catch fire.
Cigarettes and cigarette ends
I put my cigarette ends in an ashtray. I don’t smoke in the forest.
Construction work and sparks
I carry out my work well away from the lawn and dry grass, and I make sure I have a fire extinguisher to hand in case a fire breaks out.
Fuel storage
I store flammable materials and products (wood, gas cylinders) in a locked shed, away from my home.
What should you do if a fire breaks out?
Alert
If I see a fire starting, I raise the alarm by calling 112, 18 or 114 (for people with hearing impairments) and try to locate the fire.
Protect yourself
I take shelter in a building that has been cleared of undergrowth whilst waiting for the emergency services to arrive. The car is not a safe place to take shelter as it could catch fire.
Find out more
I am keeping up to date with the situation and following the instructions issued by the emergency services or the local council.
The Forest Weather Service does not provide information on current or impending fires
When the risk of fire is high, prefectures may restrict or even prohibit access to at-risk areas for vehicles and pedestrians. Barbecues, fireworks and any use of fire may be banned. Agricultural and forestry work that generates sparks may be restricted or even banned.
Failure to comply with the safety guidelines issued by the public authorities may result in a fine of 4e course fee of €750.
Find out more on the website of your local prefecture or town hall.
Reminder: If you see a fire starting, alert the 18 (fire brigade), the 112 (European telephone number) or the 114 (emergency number for deaf or hard-of-hearing people) and pinpoint the source of the fire by giving the address (or, if possible, use your mobile phone’s location services).