Summary Magazine 112 year 2025
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Warehouse fire in Ostrava-Třebovice
In the early morning hours of August 22, 2025, a large-scale warehouse fire was reported in Ostrava-Třebovice, prompting one of the largest interventions in recent years. The fire affected three interconnected halls without fire separation, which led to rapid fire spread. Over 250 firefighters intervened on the scene, special equipment and drones were deployed. The intervention was complicated by high temperatures, thick smoke, static disruption of structures and limited water resources. Thanks to the effective command and cooperation of the integrated rescue system services, the fire was prevented from spreading to other buildings. Losses exceeded 120 million CZK, the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Tactical Exercise: Ammonia Leak from Cooling Technology into the External Environment at the Premises of Mlékárny Kunín, s.r.o.
The tactical exercise, which took place on June 2, 2025, at the Mlékárny Kunín in Ostrava-Martinov, simulated an ammonia leak from the cooling technology. The aim was to test the operational capability of fire protection units, the preparedness of the staff and the functionality of information and warning systems. Firefighters in chemical protective suits carried out a person rescue, decontamination and measures to limit the hazardous substance leak. The exercise was conducted realistically using simulation tools, a mobile siren and specialized information technologies. Despite minor shortcomings, it was evaluated very positively and confirmed the high level of preparedness of all participating units for emergencies of this type.
European Platform for the Exchange of Information in the Field of Fire Safety
The European Fire Information Exchange Platform – FIEP, established by the European Commission in 2017, supports the exchange of information and best practices in the field of fire safety among EU member states. The first part of the article outlines the activities of project teams focused on fire statistics, new technologies, investigation of causes, prevention and unification of terminology. The discussion focuses primarily on data quality, digital tools for control, training of investigators and adaptation of regulations to new challenges, including electromobility. Special attention is paid to prevention among vulnerable groups of the population, for example in the context of energy poverty. Examples of good practice from Sweden, Austria, France and Japan show the importance of cooperation, education and regular reviews. FIEP creates space for technical dialogue and strengthening of fire safety across Europe.
Using virtual reality for firefighters´ training
A project implemented by the Ministry of Interior-Directorate General of the Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic in cooperation with the Population Protection Institute expands the training options for fire protection units using virtual reality. Simulations of emergencies and intervention scenarios enable effective training, including investigation of the causes of fires. Research with a technically oriented university confirmed the effect of virtual reality on the cognitive load and physiology of users. The project responds to the limited capacity of real polygons and brings new tools for firefighters´ training, including a voice instructor and realistic simulation of fire and water behavior.