After a major fire two weeks ago in Eifel, which left two people slightly injured, local authorities are warning of possible harmful particles in the air, including asbestos fibres. The blaze broke out at the OT Weilerbach craft centre in Bollendorf on 13 May 2026, and the route between the Echternach border and Bollendorf has since reopened.
As asbestos fibres may be present, residents are urged not to sweep or blow away dust or ash on terraces, pavements or garden furniture. All surfaces should instead be cleaned only with a damp cloth or rinsed gently at low water pressure.
If fragments of boards or other suspicious materials are found, they should not be touched or disturbed, since doing so can release fibres into the air.
Fruit, vegetables and herbs from home gardens can still be eaten, but should be washed thoroughly or peeled first.
The German authorities also recommend removing street shoes before entering the house to avoid carrying dust indoors. Cars should not be dry-cleaned but instead taken through a car wash or rinsed thoroughly with water beforehand. Pets that have been outside should be brushed or wiped down with a damp cloth before coming inside.
