Kinderfeuerwehren in Hessen with large influx - Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades see record growth in youth membership

Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades are growing rapidly, with membership rising from 12,900 to over 18,500 in five years. The state now supports more than 1,225 local groups, up from under 1,000 in 2019. These programmes teach children fire safety, emergency skills, and teamwork in an engaging way.

The number of children joining Junior Fire Brigades in Hesse has climbed steadily. In 2019, around 12,900 were involved, but today, participation exceeds 18,500. At the same time, the number of local groups has increased from just under 1,000 to over 1,225.

The state government is investing in the programme's future. This year, the Youth Fire Brigade Training Center in Marburg-Cappel will add seven new positions. Funding for 2026 includes €110,000 for a coordinator role, training materials, and educational resources. Beyond firefighting skills, the groups focus on teaching democracy, tolerance, and respect. Schools also reinforce fire safety education, helping children learn self-protection and emergency response. While nationwide data remains limited, Hesse's efforts highlight a strong commitment to youth engagement in fire services.

With rising membership and expanded training facilities, Hesse's Junior Fire Brigades continue to grow. The state's financial support and educational focus ensure children gain practical skills and teamwork experience. These efforts aim to build a safer, more prepared generation.