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European Union: the essential cooperation of firefighters
Sometimes, Europe also helps create solidarity between States, particularly in the event of a natural disaster. During devastating fires, the European civil protection mechanism allows other countries to send reinforcements.
French Canadians sent to Greece during the summer of 2023 to fight uncontrollable fires. Some French firefighters are battling the fire on the other side of the world and Czech firefighters have been deployed to floods in northern France. When natural disasters become unmanageable, can Europe help? If a country calls for help, rescue services are coordinated from Brussels (Belgium).
However, Europe does not have its own firefighters, so it depends on the Member States. Each country sends aid if it wishes and according to its means. Since 2020, French firefighters have gone to help in four European countries with forest fires, an earthquake and even floods. In the event of travel, Europe covers three quarters of the expenses. France also receives aid, particularly in Gironde. Two years ago, German firefighters came to the aid of French firefighters overwhelmed by the fires. But the language barrier and technical problems can sometimes complicate cooperation. So that firefighters learn to work together, there is now joint training.
