As soaring temperatures and dry conditions keep the wildfire risk high across southern France, Monaco’s firefighters are intensifying their preparations with specialist training exercises held on a rotating basis between the Fontvieille and La Condamine fire stations…
With the Alpes-Maritimes under a yellow heatwave alert and major forest fires continuing to rage elsewhere in France, the Principality’s Fire and Emergency Service is taking no chances. Every Wednesday throughout the summer, firefighters conduct dedicated wildfire training, ensuring that crews remain ready to respond quickly and safely should conditions deteriorate
Fontvieille and La Condamine are the two primary emergency rescue centres of the Monaco Fire and Emergency Service. Together, these two strategic fire stations house approximately 147 professional firefighters who serve the Principality.
The aforementioned training exercises, involve crews rehearsing techniques for tackling vegetation fires and defending homes and other locations that may be vulnerable to the effects of wildfires, using scenarios that reflect the challenging terrain found on the outskirts of Monaco.
Specialised vehicles play a central role in the training. Compact fire engines are designed to access narrow roads and difficult-to-reach areas, whilst larger support vehicles maintain a continuous water supply without obstructing emergency access routes. Firefighters also practise deploying hydraulic water screens, which can shield both personnel and nearby buildings from intense heat.
The brigade’s equipment includes advanced self-protection systems that allow crews to shelter inside their vehicles and breathe filtered air if fire conditions become too dangerous.
Officials say regular training is essential to maintaining operational readiness, ensuring Monaco’s firefighters are prepared to respond effectively to the heightened wildfire risk that accompanies the Mediterranean summer.
Image: Stephane Danna