The Association for the Promotion of German Fire Protection (vfdb) and the German Fire Brigade Association reacted with incomprehension to the prejudgment of the London Fire Brigade in connection with the Grenfell Tower fire in London. 72 people died in the disaster two years ago.
In numerous media reports, the fire brigade has now been blamed for the deaths of numerous people due to alleged serious errors of a 'systematic nature', citing the previously announced investigation report.
“It is hard to believe that one can come to such a conclusion given the serious construction defects on and in the building,” commented vfdb Vice President, Dr. Anja Hofmann-Böllinghaus on the report.
Fire brigade
The fire brigade is blamed for the disaster and it is criticized that the fire brigade was not prepared
The study cited admits that the fire was able to spread so quickly in the building because of facade cladding made of highly flammable material.
Nevertheless, the fire brigade is blamed for the disaster and it is criticized that the fire brigade was not prepared for such a catastrophe.
“It seems downright absurd to retrospectively blame the fire department for such an unforeseeable accident,” emphasized Anja Hofmann-Böllinghaus, adding “Instead, we should ask which authorities knew about the blatant construction defects long beforehand and did nothing. In recent decades, state control has also been largely privatized in Great Britain. As a result, fire departments also had to hand over tasks - but these political decisions cannot now be blamed on the fire departments in retrospect."
Investigation report
DFV President - Hartmut Ziebs also expressed surprise at the media response to the investigation report, which was only officially announced on Wednesday. “Our full solidarity goes out to our fellow firefighters in London,” explained Hartmut Ziebs.
Hartmut Ziebs adds, “Of course, it is permissible and also necessary to review fire brigade operations in order to draw conclusions for future operations if necessary. Here, however, the impression is given that we want to distract attention from the real mistakes and those responsible for the terrible accident.”
