In temperate Europe, landscape fires are increasingly common, as shown by new wildfire statistics for the Netherlands. Between 2017 and 2022, the Netherlands experienced 611 wildfires and burned 405 hectares annually, far exceeding satellite data estimates. These fires primarily occurred in heathlands, were small (average 1.5 hectares), caused by human activity, and often occurred simultaneously in spring and summer droughts. Fire suppression, restoration, and traffic delays cost 3 million euros annually. Over 31 fatalities have been recorded since 1833, highlighting the significant societal impact of these fires. The Netherlands lacks a formal system for recording landscape fire statistics, unlike many other countries. The study emphasizes the need for a legal framework to ensure consistent record-keeping, support integrated fire management, and meet international reporting requirements. Landscape fires in the Netherlands are not primarily in forests but in open habitats like heathlands. Fire causes are largely unknown, with human activity being the main cause. The study also highlights the economic and social impacts of these fires, including highway disruptions and evacuations. The Netherlands is not alone in facing these challenges, as other European countries also lack comprehensive fire statistics. The study calls for improved data collection, awareness, and policy development to better manage fire risks and protect communities.In temperate Europe, landscape fires are increasingly common, as shown by new wildfire statistics for the Netherlands. Between 2017 and 2022, the Netherlands experienced 611 wildfires and burned 405 hectares annually, far exceeding satellite data estimates. These fires primarily occurred in heathlands, were small (average 1.5 hectares), caused by human activity, and often occurred simultaneously in spring and summer droughts. Fire suppression, restoration, and traffic delays cost 3 million euros annually. Over 31 fatalities have been recorded since 1833, highlighting the significant societal impact of these fires. The Netherlands lacks a formal system for recording landscape fire statistics, unlike many other countries. The study emphasizes the need for a legal framework to ensure consistent record-keeping, support integrated fire management, and meet international reporting requirements. Landscape fires in the Netherlands are not primarily in forests but in open habitats like heathlands. Fire causes are largely unknown, with human activity being the main cause. The study also highlights the economic and social impacts of these fires, including highway disruptions and evacuations. The Netherlands is not alone in facing these challenges, as other European countries also lack comprehensive fire statistics. The study calls for improved data collection, awareness, and policy development to better manage fire risks and protect communities.