Burgenland's Massive Vegetation Fire Drill Tests Emergency Services Readiness
A large-scale la fire map exercise for combating vegetation fires took place in the district of Jennersdorf, Burgenland. The exercise, led by HBI Manfred Baeck and ABI Dipl.-Ing. Michael Janisch, simulated a fictitious outbreak due to persistent drought. Around ten hectares were symbolically on fire, using hay and straw to create realistic conditions.
Over 150 emergency services personnel from 19 vehicles and 15 fire departments participated in the exercise. They were joined by two VBB trains and support from Slovenia, including two vehicles and twelve firefighters. The assumed fire sites were near an old arm of the Raab and close to the company Vossen. Around 60 support points have been set up in Burgenland to improve efficiency in combating fire.
The exercise, an initiative of the state of Burgenland and the state fire brigade association, was observed by representatives from administration and fire department leadership, as well as the Slovenian fire brigade. It aimed to simulate real challenges and test the readiness of emergency services.
The successful exercise in Jennersdorf demonstrates Burgenland's commitment to preparedness in combating vegetation fires. The involvement of international partners and the use of realistic scenarios ensure that emergency services are well-equipped to handle such challenges in the future.
