How to prevent wildfires in Switzerland and Europe

With risk levels high across much of Switzerland, an expert explains why the wildfire season started early in Europe this year and what can help the situation.

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So far in 2026, Switzerland has not experienced any large-scale fires. But the country is suffering from severe drought, and almost all cantons face a high to very high risk of forest firesExternal link.

All 26 cantons have issued restrictions or bans on outdoor fires. In Fribourg, barbecues are prohibited even in designated public grilling areas, while Winterthur in canton Zurich has banned all forms of open fire, including private charcoal barbecues. The traditional fireworks displays for Switzerland’s National Day on August 1 are also under careful scrutiny.

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The FOEN expects that more frequent droughts and heatwaves are set to increase the risk of wildfires in Switzerland, not only in summer but also in winter and early spring.

During these periods, vegetation has not yet fully resumed growth. And when snow is absent, sunlight hits the forest floor directly, drying grasses and leaves accumulated from the previous year. The risk is also intensified by the “Föhn” – a warm, dry wind common in many Alpine valleys that can accelerate the spread of flames.

According to Miller, the most effective prevention measures are to “reduce the likelihood of human-caused ignitions and to strengthen preparedness”. This includes raising public awareness, improving the early detection of fires and ensuring rapid initial intervention. Forest management aimed at structurally diverse and climate-adapted forests is also important, she adds.

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