Marburg’s Elite Disaster Response Team Stands Ready for Any Crisis
The Marburg Fire Department’s disaster response unit plays a vital role in handling emergencies across the region. From floods and major fires to humanitarian crises, the team stands ready to act when lives or essential supplies are threatened. Equipped with specialised vehicles and trained personnel, they form one of 22 such units in the Marburg-Biedenkopf district.
The unit operates under the leadership of Björn Heinrich and his deputies, supported by 57 members from different parts of Marburg. They meet at least four times a year for joint training, covering both theory and hands-on exercises. This regular preparation ensures they stay sharp for evolving challenges like climate change, geopolitical risks, and new technologies.
When activated, the team deploys an incident command vehicle (ELW) to establish an on-site command post. This central hub coordinates resources and response efforts during large-scale emergencies. Their fleet includes swap-body trucks with roll-off containers for hoses and large tanks, as well as a field kitchen staffed by trained volunteers.
Beyond natural disasters, the unit assists in humanitarian missions, such as setting up vaccination centres and emergency shelters. Their work highlights the importance of public preparedness, including maintaining emergency supplies, a go-bag, backup power, and reliable warning systems like the NINA app.
The Marburg disaster response unit remains a cornerstone of regional safety, adapting to new threats through continuous training and equipment upgrades. Their role extends beyond crisis intervention, reinforcing the need for community readiness in an unpredictable world. The team’s coordination and specialised tools ensure a swift, effective response when emergencies strike.
