EU assembles firefighting teams to support countries at risk of wildfires
The European Union has assembled teams of firefighters to assist European countries struggling with forest fires. A wildfire support team will also be established at the EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre, the Commission announced on Monday.
In July and August, some 650 firefighters from 14 countries will assist local fire brigades in France, Greece, Portugal and Spain at critical locations. In addition, 22 firefighting aircraft and four helicopters will be stationed in 10 member states to be deployed in case of emergency.
Another 19 teams of 30 firefighters and one team of advisers are ready to be mobilised by the EU, and there will be a dedicated forest fire support team at the EU's 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre, to monitor risks and analyse scientific data.
The efforts are coordinated by the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which aims to strengthen cooperation on civil protection to improve disaster prevention and and response. In addition to EU countries, 10 other countries also participate in the mechanism.
"This proactive approach confirms the EU's commitment to staying one step ahead of disasters, including those worsened by climate change, and to joining forces to protect lives, homes and the environment," the Commission says.
Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib visited Madrid on Monday, to discuss the issue with the Spanish civil protection authorities.
"Extreme heat and wildfires in Europe have sadly become the new normal," Lahbib said. "I am glad the EU has more to offer than just words of concern and consolation: our support is tangible and makes a difference on the ground. This wouldn’t be possible without a strong team effort across borders."
© PHOTO PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP
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