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Topics such as digitalization and robotics are increasingly finding their way into fire departments, disaster control and rescue services. This was pointed out by Albrecht Broemme, member of the executive board of the Association for the Promotion of German Fire Protection (vfdb). 

At an event on the occasion of the INTERSCHUTZ 2020 trade fair, which is about 100 days away, Broemme said on Thursday (March 5) in Hamburg: “We must not lose touch.” At the same time, he pointed out the far-reaching possibilities of networking. Broemme cited the integration of smart homes or smart building sensors as individual examples. This means that an assessment of the damage pattern and course of damage or injuries can be made on the way to an emergency site. Nor is it utopian, for example, to use digital technology to guide emergency vehicles on the road via a “green wave”.

Latest developments

Broemme reiterated the vfdb’s call for a “digital pact” for fire departments and rescue services

Technical change, climatic changes and social developments constantly mean new challenges for us,” said the vfdb executive board member. “If we ignore these challenges, our rescuers will increasingly reach their limits.”

Broemme reiterated the vfdb’s call for a “digital pact” for fire departments and rescue services. “Tablets and telemedicine, drones and virtual reality – all of this already exists. We just have to integrate and network the technology sensibly into our systems.” The world's pioneering trade fair INTERSCHUTZ in Hanover will once again present countless examples and the latest developments to a global audience from June 15th to 20th.

Current status of digitalization

The aim is to determine the current status of digitalization in security measures

A study that the vfdb has started together with the Safety Innovation Center eV can already be eagerly awaited. The aim is to determine the current status of digitalization in security measures. The results will be presented during INTERSCHUTZ.

Climate, society, technology – everything is changing. “We, who are active in the areas of protection, rescue and security, also have to change,” warned Albrecht Broemme. This applies to the future recruitment of young talent as well as to training, equipment, and tactics.

Inseparable partners for 40 years

The vfdb has been one of the formative companions of the trade fair since 1953, when the first fire brigade exhibition under the title “The Red Rooster” took place in Essen, which was given the name INTERSCHUTZ in 1972. Deutsche Messe AG has been the organizer since 1980. 

The vfdb as an ideal sponsor and Deutsche Messe AG have been inseparable partners for 40 years and can celebrate their ruby wedding anniversary this year,” emphasized Broemme and at the same time pointed out that the vfdb will be present during this year’s INTERSCHUTZ (June 15-20) celebrates its 70th anniversary.

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