Kranenburg Firefighters receive hands-on vegetation firefighting training, with practicing sessions conducted in Reichswald and other outdoor areas
Firefighters Gain Practical Skills at Wildfire Seminar in Kranenburg
A group of 30 firefighters from Kranenburg recently participated in a wildfire seminar, aimed at preparing emergency services for the increasing threat of field and forest fires. The training, which took place at the premises of a youth hostel in Nutterden, provided a foundation for more targeted and efficient emergency action, as emphasized by trainer Andreas Thelosen.
The seminar began with a theoretical block, focusing on the unique challenges of the Reichswald, including topography, accessibility, and radio communication in large forest areas. This was followed by a short break, after which practical training commenced.
Firefighters trained on the use of various equipment, including fire sacks, equipment for creating firebreaks, sprinklers, hoses, and D-hoses. The focus of the second part was on coupling under pressure with D-hoses, a crucial skill for real-life situations.
A key aspect of the second part of the seminar was the realistic combat of a stubble field fire, which was simulated on a field provided by the van Wickeren family. A large sandbox was used for simulating various scenarios, recreating topographical conditions, vegetation, and landscape structures.
Participants' feedback was consistently positive about the combination of theoretical input and practical exercises. Solutions and tactical approaches were discussed throughout the training, with challenges such as accessibility and communication in large forest areas being addressed.
The training aimed to equip participants with practical tools for real-life situations. After the seminar, the emergency services returned to their stations with many new impressions and valuable experiences. The firefighters left the training grounds with a renewed sense of preparedness and confidence in their ability to handle wildfire emergencies effectively.
