Fire Department Gathering of 2025: Commercial Fire Brigade's Annual Event - Emphasis on Dedication, Recognition, and awards
In the heart of Mechernich, the local fire station continues to serve the community with unwavering dedication. With a total of 69 active members, the team is a vibrant blend of youth and experience. A high proportion of the members fall under the age of 40, ensuring a dynamic and energetic approach to their work.
Recently, several promotions have taken place within the station. Christopher Bayer, Patrick Nosbers, and Frank Radermacher have been promoted to Senior Fire Chief, while Lara Rollesbroich, Christiane Blum, Jannik Felser, Daniel Vus, and Alfred Elkes have been elevated to Fire Chief. Stefan Alder, Benedikt Grell B, David Langstein, and Julian Salmon were promoted to Firefighter (FM).
The current building in "In der Eule" is only conditionally usable due to the 2021 flood disaster. However, a new fire equipment building is under construction below the sports field, promising a more suitable and resilient home for the team.
The fire station has been actively supporting regional units such as the NRW water supply unit, the ABC unit of the Euskirich district, and the IuK and coordination group of the city of Mechernich. They have also been providing essential services to the citizens, logging over 5,100 hours of service in 2024 alone.
The youth fire brigade, led by Youth Leader Frank Rademacher, is another vital part of the station. With 19 members, including four girls, the brigade is playing a crucial role in fostering the next generation of firefighters.
Notable long-serving members include Mike Brehm, Helmut Brose, and Christoph Wiesen, who received the North Rhine-Westphalia Fire Service Honor Cross in gold for 35 years of membership. After 17 years of active service, Hauptfeuerwehrmann Rolf Bayer could be released into the honorary department.
In recognition of their long-term commitment, Christiane Blum, Mario Mitscher, Marc Tiefensee, Daniel Vus, and Roland Conraths received the silver award for 25 years of membership. Station Leader Ralf Eichen took the opportunity to thank all deployment forces for their tireless commitment.
The deployments in 2024 included 38 fire incidents, 15 hazardous materials and ABC incidents, and 35 technical assistance operations. The team also handled 100 deployments in total, demonstrating their versatility and readiness to respond to any situation.
Replacements for the command vehicle and a tank fire engine are expected this and next year, ensuring the fire station remains equipped to meet the challenges ahead. As the Mechernich fire station continues to grow and evolve, it remains a vital and essential part of the local community.