What is the history of fire services in Belgium?

The history of fire services in Belgium predates the foundation of the country, since local municipalities had been given the statutory authority and duty to prevent and repress fires in the late 18th century. Municipalities were entirely free in how they undertook this responsibility, and whether or not to maintain a fire service.

How do Belgian fire zones work?

Their funding comes primarily from their constituent municipalities and from the Belgian federal government. The fire zones each manage a network of fire stations, with assigned firefighters and fire apparatus, from which firefighting and rescue operations are carried out.

How are fire zones governed in Belgium?

As stated before, fire zones (officially 'emergency rescue zones') are public bodies composed of multiple constituent municipalities. Bar some exceptions, they are governed by a council in which the mayor of each municipality has a seat. Their funding comes primarily from their constituent municipalities and from the Belgian federal government.

Do fire departments need better training to deal with energy storage system hazards?

Fire departments need data, research, and better training to deal with energy storage system (ESS) hazards. These are the key findings shared by UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) and presented by Sean DeCrane, International Association of Fire Fighters Director of Health and Safety Operational Services at SEAC’s May 2023 General Meeting.

How is civil security safeguarded in Belgium?

In Belgium, the civil security is safeguarded by two branches: the fire zones (and the Brussels Fire and Emergency Medical Service) on one hand, and the Civil Protection on the other hand. The Civil Protection is an emergency service managed by Belgium's federal government.

Is Giga storage planning a 300MW project in Belgium?

In September, Giga Storage, a BESS developer based in the Netherlands, announced that it is planning a 300MW/1,200MWh project in Belgium which would be connected directly to the transmission network via existing 380kV high-voltage transmission lines nearby. Read more coverage of the Belgian market on Energy-Storage.news.