Saxony: fire-fighting helicopters used in forest fires near Oybin

Oybin (dpa/sn) - A fire-fighting helicopter is now also helping to fight a forest fire near the Saxon spa town of Oybin.

Saxony: fire-fighting helicopters used in forest fires near Oybin

Oybin (dpa/sn) - A fire-fighting helicopter is now also helping to fight a forest fire near the Saxon spa town of Oybin. In the first hours after the fire broke out near the train station of the well-known holiday resort in the Görlitz district, the firefighters did not get to the source of the fire. "Until the helicopter arrived, we kept the fire in check from the side and prevented it from spreading," said district fire chief Björn Mierisch on Friday. The fire area currently covers about one hectare.

With the help of experienced mountaineers, hoses were laid out in the difficult-to-access area. By mid-afternoon, more than 100 firefighters were deployed. "I am confident that we will get the fire under control today," said Mierisch.

The fire was reported around 10 a.m. at a level crossing. The health resort had to be cordoned off and all access roads blocked by the police.