The Gironde is placed in RED alert for forest fires. This vigilance is shifting to the level very high (red/level 4 on a scale of 5).
A collective responsibility, more relevant than ever
This decision follows extreme weather conditions and imposes, for the entire department – and more particularly in sensitive areas such as the Dune du Pilat – strict restrictions in the practice of all outdoor activities.
Four years after the 2022 fires, the indelible scars remain.
Summer 2022 has left its mark indelible traces on the forest massif of La Teste-de-Buch and the Dune of PilatIn July 2022, more than 7,000 hectares of forest went up in smoke around the dune, a natural symbol of the Arcachon Basin. At the height of the crisis, a disrupted biodiversity and a landscape marked by the scars of the blazeToday, if nature tries to reclaim its rights, the wounds remain visible from the crest of Dune.
These painful memories must raise awareness among each visitor of the fragility of this exceptional site and the importance of collective efforts to preserve it.
The preservation of the Dune of Pilat is everyone's business. We urge visitors to be extra vigilant and strictly follow the instructions..
Restrictions in effect during red alert
Faced with this accumulated risk, several measures apply:
Absolute prohibition of all fires, including barbecues
No smoking, throwing cigarette butts or any incandescent debris in or near the forest. On the Grand Site of the Dune du Pilat, smoking is prohibited throughout the entire site (reception village and dune).
Access to the forest is strictly prohibited.
Prohibition on the use of thermal tools (brush cutters, grinders, etc.), burning green waste or flying lanterns/fireworks near forest areas.
Obligation for everyone to report any outbreak of fire At 18 or to 112 without delay.
As a reminder, the sand becomes extremely hot from 11 am/12 pm onwards. It's best to postpone your visit until early morning or late evening. Wearing closed shoes is strongly recommended.
Everyone's vigilance, the first barrier against fire
94% of forest fires are human-causedBeing vigilant means:
- Respect the regulations posted on the trails and reception areas.
- Avoid any risky behavior: smoking, wild picnics, parking on the hard shoulder.
- Raise awareness among those around you, especially young people, of the importance of adopting the right habits.
- Keep informed of any changes to the instructions from local authorities before going out into the natural environment.
Let us protect this natural heritage together so that future generations can still marvel at this unique landscape.
