Forest fires risk high as temperature shoots

In recent weeks, people all over Finland have enjoyed summer weather, with temperatures showing no signs of cooling by Midsummer weekend. However, the exceptional heat and dry ground also increase the risk of forest fires, said OP Financial Group in a bulletin

According to accident statistics by Finnish rescue services, the number of forest fires is up by 25% compared to the same time period the previous year even before the end of June.

"When the average temperature rises, the ground dries up. Drought and wind play a significant role in forest fire outbreaks. Areas with a low risk of forest fire may become high-risk areas in the future as climate change advances," says Markus Uimonen, Director, Property and General Liability Claims Settlement at Pohjola Insurance.

At least in Pohjola Insurance's statistics, forest fires are not yet a significant cause of damage.

"The amount of insurance payout can easily rise if a forest fire destroys buildings, for example. We have paid out six-figure sums in the past for these types of losses, but such incidents are rare. However, as forest fires become more frequent, the risks of human suffering and damage to homes due to fire increases," says Uimonen.

In major fires, the cost of damages can rise as high as tens of millions of euros, according to a report by Finance Finland. Human activity is a significant cause of forest fires, and fires are often the result of negligence in everyday life.

"Frequent causes of fires include discarded cigarette butts and disposable barbecues, for example. Not everyone is aware of the fact that disposable barbecues may not be used in areas where a forest fire warning is in effect," said Uimonen.

Glasses, driving licence and bank notes – Midsummer bonfires often claim valuable belongings

Regional forest fire warnings and other instructions issued by the authorities must be followed strictly. In addition, general caution is always advisable when dealing with fire. The lighting of fires, including Midsummer bonfires, is prohibited in areas with a forest fire warning in effect. Pohjola Insurance's statistics show that bonfires often end up burning more than originally intended.

"Over the years, people have been known to drop glasses, phones and wallets into the flames when lighting a bonfire. While accidental, such losses could be easily avoidable. Regrettably, such incidents also often result in burn injuries," says Uimonen.

If bonfires are permitted in the area and one is planned for the Midsummer weekend, care must also be taken to ensure that the fire is put out appropriately. The best way to put out a Midsummer bonfire is to let it burn out on its own. You should also have enough water and fire extinguishing equipment on hand.

"Our statistics show that in some cases, forest fires have been caused by ash. Even a small gust of wind can easily cause ash to reignite. Under perfect conditions, ash can smoulder for several days even if the original fire has burnt out," added Uimonen.

Bonfires may only contain clean wood and must be at a safe distance from buildings. A bonfire may be lit with the landowner's permission when other conditions allow it. The safest place for a Midsummer bonfire is near a body of water or on a raft on water.