Residents and holidaymakers, we're informing you!

This page centralizes useful information regarding the fires currently occurring in Gironde.

The Gironde region is under RED alert for forest fires.

Within the framework defined by the interdepartmental regulations for forest fire protection dated July 7, 2023, the Prefect of Gironde has decided that, starting Sunday, August 8, 2026, at noon, the forest fire prevention alert level in the Gironde department will be raised to red (level 4 on a scale of 5) in municipalities with predominantly forested areas . However, these measures also apply to the entire department.

Are you staying in Blaye Bourg Terres d'Estuaire?

Accommodations, restaurants, and some tourist sites remain open unless otherwise indicated. Before any outdoor activity, consult the recommendations of the authorities and any restrictions on access to natural areas.

 

Information is updated based on communications from the authorities. Our Tourist Offices remain at your disposal for any further information.

Find information from the DFCI (Forest Fire Protection Service in Nouvelle-Aquitaine)

 

 

 

  • Traffic light map – carte NASA's Fire Spread Information System (Firms-Fire Information For Resource Management System)

 

 

1. POLLUTION ALERT

Due to the smoke generated by the fires in the Landes and Gironde regions, the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is experiencing an episode of air quality degradation exceeding the alert threshold according to ATMO France (level of suspended particles (PM10).

Air pollution can cause respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, asthma attacks), eye and throat irritation, and affect your cardiovascular system. Vulnerable and sensitive populations should be especially vigilant.

Follow the advice of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Regional Health Agency

 

Health recommendations for vulnerable and sensitive populations

Pregnant women, infants and young children, people over 65, as well as those suffering from cardiovascular, respiratory or asthmatic conditions must follow the recommendations issued by the prefecture:

  • Limit outings
  • Close the doors and windows
  • Consult your doctor to adjust your treatment if necessary. 

For the general population, if you experience respiratory or cardiac discomfort, consult a healthcare professional and reduce strenuous physical activity. Detailed information on air quality is available on the ATMO Nouvelle-Aquitaine website.

 

 

2. HEALTH CONTACTS

3. RECOMMENDATIONS IN CASE OF SMOKE FROM FIRE

If you live in an area far from the fires but where dense smoke from forest fires reaches, find the current recommendations to avoid irritation:

  • limit travel and time spent outdoors,
  • Keep doors and windows closed and only ventilate when conditions permit.
  • cover the vents with damp cloths,
  • Turn off the ventilation systems during smoke episodes.
  • avoid outdoor physical activities in the area,
  • ensure good air quality inside your home (avoid cigarettes, gas, fireplaces, candles, incense, etc.),
  • closely monitor people at risk.

In Gironde, the forest is part of our heritage. It is also particularly vulnerable to fire, especially during periods of intense heat, drought, and wind. The vast majority of fires are caused by human activity or carelessness. To protect our forests and our land, everyone's vigilance is essential.

  • Never throw away a cigarette butt on the ground or through your vehicle window. Use a suitable ashtray.
  • Never light a fire or barbecue near wooded areas.
  • Avoid work that generates sparks. (grinder, angle grinder, welding…) during periods of heightened vigilance.
  • Park your vehicle only on suitable surfaces: A hot exhaust pipe coming into contact with dry vegetation can be enough to start a fire.
  • Comply with the Legal Obligation to Clear Brush: If you live near a forest, regularly clearing brush from your land is a legal obligation. This protects your home and slows the spread of fire.
  • Respect access restrictions to forest areas when they are put in place during periods of high risk.
  • Green waste: Open burning of your green waste is strictly prohibited year-round. Please take it to a waste disposal center or compost it.
  • Leave no waste in nature. Certain materials, such as glass, can promote the start of a fire under certain conditions.

 

In case of a fire

    • Alert emergency services immediately by dialing 18 or 112
    • Move away from the area quickly and make it easy for emergency services to access the area.
    • Provide the most precise location possible
    • Do not take risks to try to extinguish a major fire.

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