Firefighters have brought a large forest fire near the Oude Baan in Geffen under control after scaling up operations due to dry conditions and high winds. According to the Veiligheidsregio Brabant-North, the fire consisted of two separate blazes covering a total area of approximately 3,400 square meters. While the “brand meester” (fire under control) signal was issued around 8:00 p.m., crews remain on-site to handle extensive mopping-up operations.
Operational response and containment
The fire emergency involved two distinct sources located several hundred meters apart, spanning areas of 400 square meters and 3,000 square meters, respectively. To combat the flames, emergency services deployed at least six fire engines, a water tanker, and a water cannon. Water used in the suppression effort was extracted directly from the nearby Geffense Plas.
Although the primary fire has been contained, the threat remains in the ground. A spokesperson for the Veiligheidsregio Brabant-Noord stated that the mopping-up process is expected to last another two to three hours, though they noted this remains an estimation. All responding fire vehicles are currently remaining in Geffen to ensure the fire is fully extinguished.
Did You Know?
The firefighting effort required significant water resources, leading crews to draw directly from the Geffense Plas to supply the six fire engines, water tanker, and water cannon deployed to the scene.
Even after a fire is declared “under control,” the risk of re-ignition from heat trapped in the soil necessitates a prolonged presence of emergency vehicles to prevent further spread.
Safety measures for local residents
The fire initially generated significant smoke, which began to dissipate around 8:00 p.m. despite the ongoing work on the ground. Authorities continue to advise residents to stay out of the smoke. Where necessary, people in the vicinity should keep doors and windows closed to avoid inhalation of lingering smoke particles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fire in Geffen fully extinguished?
No. While the “brand meester” signal was given at 8:00 p.m., the fire is still present in the ground, requiring crews to continue mopping-up operations for several more hours.
Why was the response scaled up?
The fire department increased their efforts due to the combination of dry conditions and high winds, which increased the risk of the fire spreading across the 3,400 square meters of affected land.
What should residents do about the smoke?
The current advice from the Veiligheidsregio Brabant-Noord is to avoid the smoke and to keep doors and windows closed if you are in the affected area.
How has the recent weather pattern influenced your local fire safety preparations?