Glashütte: Fire department fights against staff shortages and increasing deployments!

Glashütte: Fire department fights against staff shortages and increasing deployments!

Glassworks.Red alert for the Glashütte fire department! In 2023, the frequency of operations rose to a shocking 96 operations - that's an average of every four days! Fire chief Veith Hanzsch reported to the city council that the fire of operations is still burning this year, with 86 alarms already raised. On particularly hectic days, some local fire departments had to deploy up to three times. But the situation is dire: fewer and fewer active firefighters are available to fight the flames.

The active members of the fire department have fallen by 15 percent! Hanzsch expressed concern that the city council was not fully behind the fire department. Necessary investments are being blocked by some city councils, resulting in equipment and devices not being fully procured. “We are behind target,” warns Hanzsch and calls for clear support from the city council for the fire department, which fulfills an essential duty.

The challenges

The number of people wearing breathing apparatus, which is essential in fires, is also falling. There are currently only 67 available, of which only 23 are operational during the day. The fire department is fighting the decline in active members and the increasing demands on training. Hanzsch makes it clear: “Every comrade has to complete at least 40 hours of training per year,” but the costs and effort are increasing. The fire department urgently needs more personnel carriers and space for the emergency services!

But there are also bright spots! The youth work is bearing fruit: the youth fire brigades have 91 members, six more than in the previous year. In addition, the Kreischa high school offers a full-day program for those interested in fire services. Hanzsch hopes for a turnaround, because the fire department is more than just a volunteer position - it is a lifesaver!