Heusden-Zolder (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Heusden-Zolder installed 10 safety signs with QR codes in forests and playgrounds to show real-time weather risks. Mayor Mario Borremans and VVSG support similar actions in towns like Bonheiden.
As VRT News reported, to improve public safety during extreme weather conditions, such as storms and periods of heightened fire risk, the municipality of Heusden-Zolder, in the province of Limburg, Belgium, has taken a proactive step. They’ve installed 10 informative signs at busy locations, particularly around forests and playgrounds. These signs are designed to help both residents and visitors understand the current risks in real-time.
Every sign has a QR code that, when scanned using a smartphone, connects to an electronic system showing the present risk level in a colour code. Mayor Mario Borremans highlighted the necessity of such a measure, stating that accidents happen because individuals are not aware of the risks they might encounter under certain weather conditions.
He mentioned that by providing real-time updates and clear instructions, the municipality aims to reduce the number of such incidents and ensure people can make informed decisions about whether to enter forested or recreational areas.
How are towns like Heusden-Zolder boosting safety in forests?
Nathalie Debast from VVSG says this new way of sharing safety information is becoming more common. Cities are realising they need to tell people about the weather and environmental risks. It’s not just about warnings when something bad happens. He mentioned that it’s about giving information ahead of time, in different ways. Using signs with QR codes is a good way to reach people who might not see news or online alerts.
According to the VVSG, this isn’t just happening in one place. Other towns in Flanders, like Wuustwezel, Zaventem, and Bonheiden, are doing the same thing. These towns have put up warning signs with real-time information in places where people go, like forests and parks. They mentioned that many towns agree on how to keep people safe and manage environmental risks.
According to officials, when the fire risk is high, indicated by a “code red” alert, similar to the situation in Limburg yesterday, May 13, 2025, the signs clearly state that all open flames, including barbecues and campfires, are strictly prohibited to prevent wildfires.
In the storm warning, the signs advise people to avoid entering the forest altogether due to the danger of falling branches or trees. They mentioned that the colour-coded system is designed for easy understanding, allowing people to quickly grasp the necessary safety precautions.
