The EU is preparing for the increased risk of wildfires during the upcoming summer months. As announced today by the Commission, the EU has already assembled firefighting teams and aircraft to assist European countries that may be affected by fires again this year.

Specifically, during July and August, nearly 650 firefighters from 14 European countries will be strategically placed at key high-risk sites in France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain.

Additionally, 22 firefighting aircraft and 4 helicopters will be stationed across 10 member states to intervene in case of emergency. Coordinated and co-funded through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, these resources will help mitigate risks and enable a faster and stronger crisis response. These means complement national capacities.

In particular, Greece will receive four medium amphibious planes and Cyprus two light aircraft. France will receive four medium amphibious planes and one helicopter; Croatia, Italy, and Spain will each receive two medium amphibious planes; Sweden will be assisted by four light aircraft; Portugal by two light aircraft; the Czech Republic by two helicopters; and Slovakia by one helicopter.

Furthermore, 19 ground firefighting teams, each consisting of about 30 firefighters, along with one expert team, are ready to be mobilized by the EU in close cooperation with member states and participating countries through the Mechanism.

A dedicated fire support team will be established at the EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre, operating 24/7, to monitor risks and analyze scientific data.

“This proactive approach confirms the EU’s commitment to staying one step ahead of disasters, including those exacerbated by climate change, and to joining forces to protect lives, homes, and the environment,” the Commission emphasizes.

It should be noted that any country in the world affected by wildfires can request assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Once activated, the EU Emergency Response Coordination Centre, operating 24/7, coordinates and co-funds the provision of aid, which is voluntarily offered by EU member states and ten additional countries participating in the UCPM (Iceland, Norway, Serbia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine).

In emergencies requiring additional rescue assistance, the EU’s strategic reserve, rescEU, can intervene to provide extra resources for managing disasters affecting Europe.