Unattended campfire ignites massive fire in Gelrode forest

On June 20, 2025, a substantial fire engulfed Kloesebos in Gelrode, Belgium, burning an area equivalent to a football field. The blaze, believed to have been sparked by a campfire that was improperly monitored, ignited around 4:30 PM. Witnesses reported seeing firefighters responding promptly to the incident, with ground crews conducting firebreaks while a helicopter assisted in dousing the flames with water. Authorities noted that no injuries or structural damages occurred, ensuring the safety of local residents and the general public. Aarchot police began an investigation following the incident, revealing that beer cans and cooking pans were found near the fire site. This evidence pointed to a gathering that may have inadvertently started the fire. Investigators are currently reviewing nearby security camera footage to track the individuals who may have been responsible for lighting the campfire. The rapid growth of the fire occurred in dry conditions, necessitating a coordinated response from emergency services. Firefighters faced significant challenges in controlling the spread of the blaze, fueled by outside factors and possibly exacerbated by the summer weather. Fortunately, their efforts contained the fire by late evening, preventing any further damage to the surrounding environment. The Kloesebos incident highlights the necessity for increased awareness regarding fire safety in natural settings. As summer approaches, authorities are urging the public to practice extreme caution while engaging in outdoor activities, particularly involving campfires or barbecues. Proper extinguishing procedures and maintaining distance from flammable materials can significantly mitigate the risk of such unintentional fires in the future.