Safeture & Riskline Report On Increasing Wildfires

Wildfires pose a significant challenge to travel and can be associated with substantial health risks for travelers. Experts predict that wildfires' frequency and intensity will increase dramatically in 2024.

The free 'Wildfire Informer' provides a comprehensive overview of the global wildfire situation, categorized by the economic regions of EMEA, AMER, and APAC.

mapping fires

Safeture, a platform for professional people risk management, has published the report in collaboration with Riskline, a renowned travel risk analysis company.

Europe witnessed a dramatic increase in burned areas in 2023, with unprecedented fires in February and March. Fires were mapped in 24 of the 27 EU states (all except Luxembourg, Malta, and Slovakia). In Greece, at least 28 people lost their lives, and several holiday resorts on the island of Rhodes had to be evacuated by sea.

wildfire speed

Areas traditionally not prone to fires are increasingly affected by wildfires

Data for the first quarter of 2024 indicate that the number of fires is expected to double in 2024. This increase is largely attributed to prolonged drought periods, unusually high temperatures, and the effects of climate change.

Areas traditionally not prone to fires are increasingly affected by wildfires. The unpredictability of wildfire speed and spread due to fluctuating winds and dryness can quickly become a life-threatening hazard.

tips to minimize wildfires

The Safeture and Riskline wildfire report offers travelers valuable tips on minimizing risks.

Before the trip:

• Obtain travel insurance that covers cancellations due to natural disasters.
• Pack a high-performance mobile phone with good reception and a power bank.
• Download apps that provide real-time information on wildfires, evacuation routes, and safety tips.

On-site:

• Monitor weather forecasts and follow local media.
• Ensure accommodation is equipped with smoke detectors.
• Pack a backpack with essential items (water, food, medications, documents, first aid kit, etc.).

At the first signs of wildfires:

• Observe the direction of the smoke plume and move in the opposite direction.
• If the atmosphere takes on a yellow-orange to reddish hue, leave the area immediately.
• Note that white smoke indicates fast-burning materials like grass, while dark smoke signifies longer-lasting fires from dense brush or wood.
• Remember that fires spread more quickly uphill than downhill.

Safeture and Riskline emphasize the importance of being well-prepared and staying informed to ensure safety during travel in wildfire-prone areas.