Maypole burns in Andorf: defective light chain as a cause of the fire!

Maypole burns in Andorf: defective light chain as a cause of the fire!

On Sunday evening, May 29, 2025, the municipality of Andorf in the Schärding district suffered an unusual incident: a fire broke out at a maypole, apparently triggered by a defective light chain. These fairy lights are known to create an atmospheric atmosphere, but they are not completely without risk. As reported [tips] (https://www.tips.at/nachrichten/schaerding/blaulicht/686332-brand-eines-maibaumes-offenbar- through-defect-light chain-exceloest), a civilian noticed the fire in the area of ​​the middle wreath. The flames spread quickly and required immediate measures.

The alarmed fire brigade reacted quickly and was quickly at the scene. The emergency services successfully fought the fire with the help of a B-beam tube. After the extinguishing work, the Andorf fire brigade then helped to control the maypole. A crane of a local company was used to safely carry out the work. Luckily that the emergency services were able to act so quickly, because fire dangers through defective electrical devices such as fairy lights are anything but underestimated.

risks from fairy lights

fairy lights are available in many different shapes and colors and are very popular, especially in the Christmas season. They have largely replaced real candles on the Christmas tree because they do not offer an open flame. According to [Generali] (https://www.generali.de/journal/lichterketten-so-kannst-du-du-die-fire danger, however), however, a few things should be observed when using fairy lights. Permanent security is important because even if LED light chains produce less heat, the fire risk remains.

LED technology definitely has its advantages: it is energy-efficient and has a longer lifespan compared to conventional incandescent lamps. The latter can heat up to 70 degrees, which increases the risk of a smoldering fire. Accordingly, the use of certified fairy lights is recommended. Pay attention to the presence of test marks, such as the VDE test seal or the GS sign to ensure that these fairy lights meet the necessary safety standards. Cheap copies of discounters and hardware stores often do not meet the necessary standards and can have defects that can lead to dangerous situations, as da-direkt.

prevention is everything

In order to minimize the risk of fire, it is advisable to take the following security measures: Switch off the fairy lights when you are not at home and consider using time switches. Check the chains for damage before use and dispose of everything that is no longer safe. In addition, precautions should be made when attaching the fairy lights so that no pears have contact with combustible materials.

The tragic events in Andorf should be a wake -up call for everyone. An atmospheric decoration does not have to become a source of danger if we act carefully and caution. Stay safe and enjoy the best time of the year without nasty surprises!