“Retten, löschen, schützen, bergen” echoes the core tasks of the Feuerwehr Krauel, but what about honoring? Right here we stand before a memorial. It solemnly commemorates fallen comrades of the Freiwillige Feuerwehr Krauel. This fire station is located at Kirchwerder Marschbahndamm 259. It is Hamburg’s oldest continuously active volunteer fire department. It was founded in October 1877.
The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Krauel has a rich history. For over a century, it has served the community. The Feuerwehr Krauel helps in the non-police hazard prevention. They manage all occurring operations in their extinguishing district. They also take action in the entire Hamburg urban area. Annually, there are approximately 140 alarms. Around 80% of these are for medical first aid.
Imagine the Elbe’s waters. The Feuerwehr Krauel uses a small boat. This ensures water rescue on the adjacent Elbe. Moreover, the Feuerwehr Krauel provides a special supply. They use the equipment carriage logistics. They also have a field kitchen. With these, they supply task forces. This is during major damage situations.
Since 1993, the rescue control center of the Hamburg fire department alerts the Feuerwehr Krauel. This happens via digital radio receivers. They are also called “pagers.” These pagers display the operation keyword like FEUK for a small fire. They also show the address. Further, the fire station receives an operation dispatch via an alarm printer. This contains all further needed information for handling the operation.
Leading the Feuerwehr Krauel are Thomas Putfarcken and Rainer Hevers. They represent the fire department to the outside. They take over administrative tasks. And they lead the fire department in the operations. If both are unavailable, selected comrades with the corresponding training take over their tasks. This happens at the operation site.
The Feuerwehr Krauel not only fights fires and provides medical assistance. They also actively engage in community events. The Feuerwehr Krauel supports “Die Elbe brennt.” This is the well-known firework display of the FF Drage in August. In September, there is the traditional Kraueler lantern parade.
Equipped with two large vehicles, LF16/12 and LF 16 KatS, the Feuerwehr Krauel ensures safety. This applies in their extinguishing district. A small fireboat stands ready. It helps with hazard prevention, especially on the nearby Elbe. The field kitchen and the equipment carriage provide support. They help with logistics for aid workers. This is during large-scale damage events in Hamburg.
The Kameraden der Freiwilligen Feuerwehr Krauel provide round-the-clock assistance in all situations. Their fellowship is strong. Let us take a moment to reflect. This memorial stands as a testament. It honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice. They embodied the spirit of “Retten, löschen, schützen, bergen.” Their memory lives on. It inspires future generations of firefighters. They continue to protect Hamburg.