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

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

Additionally, 22 firefighting aircraft and 4 helicopters will be stationed across 10 member states to intervene if necessary. Coordinated and co-financed through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), these resources will help mitigate risks and enable a faster and more robust emergency response. These assets complement national capabilities.

Particularly for Greece, four medium amphibious aircraft will be deployed, and in Cyprus, two light aircraft. In France, four medium amphibious aircraft and one helicopter will be available; Croatia, Italy, and Spain will each have two medium amphibious aircraft; Sweden will contribute four light aircraft; Portugal will have two; the Czech Republic will deploy two helicopters; and Slovakia one helicopter.

Furthermore, 19 ground firefighting teams, each consisting of approximately 30 firefighters, and an expert team are ready for activation 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, which will operate 24/7 to monitor risks and analyze scientific data.

“This proactive approach affirms the EU’s commitment to staying ahead of disasters, including those worsened by climate change, and to uniting efforts to protect lives, homes, and the environment,” emphasizes the European Commission.

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

In case of an emergency requiring additional rescue support, the EU’s strategic reserve, rescEU, can intervene to provide extra resources for disaster response across Europe.