Hamburg Fire Department Boosts Ambulance Fleet Amid Heatwave Surge

Hamburg's fire department is bolstering its emergency services, particularly by increasing the number of ambulances, to cope with a surge in calls, partly driven by the ongoing heatwave.

A spokesperson confirmed that the department is utilizing ambulances from aid organizations like the DRK and Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund. Internal resources from fire protection units have been reallocated, with volunteers from local fire brigades stepping in to fill the gaps.

To ensure rapid response, an directive has been issued for all ambulances to use their blue lights, even when empty, to facilitate quicker returns to stations and maintain readiness. This measure comes as the fire department reported handling over 1,000 incidents by late afternoon, a figure that typically represents a full 24-hour period.

The increased operational tempo is attributed, in part, to heat-related medical emergencies. Despite the strain, the department assures that emergency medical care remains secured. Preparations are also underway for a large concert by techno artist Paul Kalkbrenner, where an estimated 20,000 fans are expected, with additional ambulances being allocated to manage potential incidents.