The EU has increased its resources to prevent widespread damage from wildfires in Europe in 2024 following a devastating summer of fires across the continent last year. A team of 556 firefighters from 12 countries will be strategically placed across key locations in Europe, with a dedicated rescue fleet of firefighting aircraft stationed in 10 member states. An extra €600 million in EU funds will be used to purchase 12 additional firefighting planes, which will be distributed among six member states, as well as several helicopters.
France is preparing for a potentially hotter than usual summer in 2024, especially in the Mediterranean region. The country has put together a team of 3,600 firefighters and 600 vehicles to strengthen the resources of the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service. France also has Canadair CL-415s planes and Dash planes positioned in strategic locations to combat wildfires. Portugal is reinforcing its rural firefighting system with 12,096 operational units and 70 aircraft available for use. Volunteer firefighters and personnel from various organizations will be involved in combating wildfires in Portugal.
Spain saw hundreds of thousands of hectares of woodland destroyed in 2023, with a more robust plan in place to combat potential forest fires in 2024. The Spanish state forest fire campaign includes Forest Fire Reinforcement Brigades and a fleet of high-capacity seaplanes operated by the Air and Space Army. Catalonia, one of the worst affected regions, has recruited 240 new firefighters to join existing forces. Italy is preparing for a challenging forest fire fighting campaign this summer, with temperatures well above normal levels and potential water scarcity. The country has contingency plans for wildfires in both rural and urban areas, with a focus on raising awareness and increased surveillance in rural areas to prevent arson.
The EU’s efforts to prevent widespread damage from wildfires in 2024 involve a team of firefighters and resources strategically placed across Europe, along with a dedicated rescue fleet of firefighting aircraft. France, Portugal, Spain, and Italy are all implementing measures to combat wildfires and protect lives, livelihoods, and the environment. These countries are reinforcing their firefighting systems with additional personnel, vehicles, and aircraft to effectively respond to potential wildfires. Increased awareness, surveillance, and preventative measures are also being emphasized to mitigate the impact of human-caused fires. With the summer season approaching, efforts are being made to ensure communities across Europe are better prepared to handle the risks associated with wildfires.
