Fire brigade strengthens the situation centre of the state government in NRW: optimal cooperation with the police

New fire service expertise strengthens the Situation Center the State government

The State Government Situation Centre in the Ministry of the Interior is being reinforced by two experienced FirefightersThis measure marks a unique approach in North Rhine-Westphaliaas police and firefighters are now working together to improve safety in the country.

Interior Minister Herbert Reul stresses the valuable addition that the Expertise of the firefighters. Thanks to their many years of experience in the Oberhausen and Mönchengladbach fire departments, Chief Fire Officer Sabrina Renkawitz and Chief Fire Officer Magnus Stoll can make valuable contributions to non-police hazard prevention.

The situation center acts as a central hub for all relevant information from various authorities, including the district governments and the German Weather Service. By integrating fire service officers, the overall structure of the situation center is strengthened in order to be able to respond to critical situations more efficiently and in a more targeted manner.

The decision to integrate fire service experts into the situation center was made after the 2021 flood disaster. This measure, which is part of the 15-point plan for future disasters, helps to improve crisis response capacities.

The main task of the firefighters in the situation center is to evaluate incoming information from fire and disaster control authorities and to forward it accordingly. They play a central role in coordinating national and international relief efforts and in supporting the state government's crisis management.

In order to further expand the expertise in the situation center, there are plans to hire up to four additional fire service officers to strengthen the team around the clock. This measure will help to increase the safety and efficiency of the emergency services in North Rhine-Westphalia.