Hannover (DPA) – About 400 firefighters from Germany and several other countries began their “European Championship” for the most appropriate emergency services in Hanover in the sweltering heat. Tandem and relay competitions were in the foreground on Saturday, with individual competitions to follow on Sunday. The meeting is considered “open EM”. According to the Hanover Company Sports Association and Trade Fair, on whose premises the show “Interschutz Community Days” is being held, participants from the USA and Iran were also registered.

Women and men faced similar sweaty tasks. At the “Firefit European Championships” with temperatures above 30 degrees in the sun, running through the course in full gear with helmets, heavy equipment and equipment was no easy task. Teams had to climb, pull hoses, and rescue dummies, among other things. “It was really hot,” it was said on the spot.

When combining sport and show events, firefighters have to demonstrate strength, coordination and stamina. Former winner and “toughest firefighter in the world”, Joachim Posanz of Göttingen also participated. “We were in passive mode for a year and a half, now we have competition again and we are happy to finally take the pig out,” he said. A group of chimney sweeps who came to the exhibition grounds as a lucky charm must have sweated profusely in their black clothes.

The “Firefit Championships” were held in Canada for the first time in 1994. Visitors can follow competitions in Hanover, but must register in advance. A total of 30 companies and organizations will also introduce themselves. Final results and honors in individual competitions are scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210618-99-52067/4