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Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades expand with record youth recruitment

A surge in young recruits transforms Hesse's fire brigades. New funding and training spaces aim to teach safety—and build stronger communities.

The image shows a group of firefighters wearing firefighting gear, including helmets and oxygen...
The image shows a group of firefighters wearing firefighting gear, including helmets and oxygen cylinders, working on a plane. In the background, there are various objects and lights, suggesting they are in the midst of a training exercise.

Kinderfeuerwehren in Hessen with large influx - Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades expand with record youth recruitment

Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades are growing rapidly, with numbers rising from 12,900 to over 18,500 in just five years. The state government has announced further support, including new funding and an expanded training centre in Marburg-Cappel.

At a recent conference in Eschborn, Interior Minister Roman Poseck (CDU) highlighted the surge in young recruits and outlined plans to strengthen the programme.

The Youth Fire Brigade Training Center in Marburg-Cappel will add seven new positions this year. This expansion aims to accommodate the increasing number of children joining the groups. The centre plays a key role in teaching fire safety, emergency response, and teamwork in an engaging way.

Hesse's state government has committed around €110,000 for the Junior Fire Brigades in 2026. The funding will cover a dedicated coordinator role, training materials, and educational resources. Schools across the region will also receive support for fire safety lessons and self-protection training. Beyond firefighting skills, the groups help children develop social values. Activities promote democracy, tolerance, and respect among members. The programme's popularity reflects its success in combining practical learning with community engagement.

With over 18,500 children now involved, Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades continue to grow. The new funding and expanded training centre will provide more opportunities for young recruits. The state's investment ensures that fire safety education and teamwork remain central to the programme.

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