On International Firefighters’ Day, celebrated every 4 May, the role of fire and rescue services takes centre stage. In France, Europe and elsewhere in the world, firefighters continue to adapt to the growing needs of populations, in a context of changing risks and expectations.

A French model structured around volunteering

With nearly 256,400 firefighters in 2023, including around 200,000 volunteers (78% of the workforce), France relies heavily on civic engagement to carry out its civil security missions. This model, which is well established throughout the country, is based on complementarity between professionals, military personnel and volunteers.

Young firefighters – nearly 28,000 in training – illustrate a desire to pass on values and expertise. The proportion of women is steadily increasing and now stands at 22% among civilians. Efforts are underway to modernise equipment, strengthen links with local authorities and facilitate voluntary engagement through measures such as extended availability for employers.

Shared challenges at European level

Fire and rescue services in Europe are based on a variety of models. Germany, for example, has around one million volunteer firefighters, while the United Kingdom relies mainly on professional staff. This diversity reflects national traditions and distinct organisational structures.

In response to the increase in natural disasters, the European Union has strengthened coordination between Member States through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (MPCU). This mechanism allows for the rapid pooling of human and material resources in the event of a crisis. Since its creation in 2001, the EPCM has been activated more than 770 times, including 58 activations in 2024 to respond to situations such as forest fires, floods and medical emergencies.

In 2023, the MPCU was mobilised on several occasions. For example, in May, major floods in Italy led to the activation of the mechanism, with France, Slovenia, Belgium and Slovakia providing high-capacity pumps. Similarly, during the forest fires in Greece in July, more than 450 firefighters and seven aircraft were deployed by the EU to support local efforts.

A changing profession facing multiple risks

The duties of firefighters have diversified over time. In France, rescue operations now account for more than 80% of interventions. Other challenges are emerging, such as technological, climate and health risk management. Services must therefore adapt to new contexts while maintaining a high level of responsiveness.

Changes in training, the use of new digital tools and partnerships with other stakeholders (health, environment, security) are helping to support these changes. In addition, ongoing discussions on the attractiveness of the profession and the recognition of voluntary commitment reflect a desire to anticipate and adapt.

International Firefighters’ Day is an opportunity to highlight the daily commitment of firefighters, which is often discreet but essential. Whether they are volunteers or professionals, firefighters embody a constantly evolving public service that is attentive to the needs of the population and new societal challenges.

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Image credit: John Torcasio Unsplash