Rescue from the air: THW in use against devastating forest fires!

Rescue from the air: THW in use against devastating forest fires!

It is bubbling in eastern Germany: The Technical Aid Agency (THW) has been in use with a large contingent since last week to combat the violent forest fires in Thuringia and Saxony. Over 300 THW forces have been mobilized and are ready in Gohrischheide. THW President Sabine Lackner personally visited the site on Tuesday and praised the tireless perseverance and the commitment of the nationwide helpers. This valuable work is particularly important because forest fires not only endanger large areas, but also a serious threat to the population.

The fast reactions of the emergency services are crucial to contain the fires. The THW helpers take on central tasks in fire fighting, including ensuring extinguishing water supply. This is done by pumping water from a gravel pit that is led over an impressive 2.5 km long hose route to the herds of fire. With large pumps that can promote up to 25,000 liters per minute, and mobile water containers, is reacted to the flames quickly and efficiently.

logistical support and technology

The exercise includes the construction of stable directional radio connections so that the emergency services can also work in the rough terrain from Altenberg. This technology enables up to 40,000 phone calls to be made in parallel and transmitted up to 400 megabits, which is optimal when coordinating rescue measures.

The first helpers at the fire location

forest fires not only present the emergency services with challenges, but also forest visitors. These are often the first to arrive at the scene of the fire and should quickly call help. There are proven tips for the emergency: Fire residues can be processed with branches and branches (preferably from pine). It is also important to keep the surfaces flammable to prevent rapid spread. Manual interventions such as creating wound strips are helpful to stop the fire.

Thanks to the technical support of the THW, its precise logistics and the energy of the emergency services, the fire can be combated efficiently. But the situation remains tense, because the dangers from forest fires are also a serious topic for the future. The mechanisms and strategies for fire fighting come into focus against the background of climate change.

FAZIT: The committed THW forces make an invaluable contribution to combating the forest fires in the region. Your work and the constant exercises not only increase operational readiness, but also help to gain important experiences in order to act quickly and effectively in emergencies.