Members of the Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Service attended INTERSCHUTZ 2026, held in Hannover, Germany.

A statement from the Government follows below:

Personnel from the Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Service - Deputy Chief Fire Officer Matthew Payas, Divisional Officer Adrian McComb and Station Officer Jared Olivero - attended INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover, Germany, the world’s leading trade fair for fire and rescue services, civil protection and safety, held from 1st to 6th June 2026. 

Their attendance underlines GFRS’s sustained commitment to professional development, operational readiness and continuous improvement. While at INTERSCHUTZ, the delegation engaged with international subject matter experts, observed the latest innovations in firefighting and rescue equipment, and evaluated emerging technologies that can enhance frontline capabilities and responder safety. 

The visit provided valuable opportunities to gather best practice insights on fire safety, specialist rescue techniques, protective equipment, and vehicle and equipment design. The delegation focused on identifying practical solutions and training opportunities that can be adapted to Gibraltar’s unique operational environment, with an emphasis on improving our Prevention, Protection and Response activities. 

Findings from INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will help shape future procurement decisions, training provision and operational procedures, ensuring the Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Service remains well equipped and operationally prepared to address evolving risks within Gibraltar such as the growing number of high-rise developments, increasingly complex national infrastructure and the changing urban environment. 

 Minister with responsibility for the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service, the Hon Leslie Bruzon, said; 

“I am delighted that members of the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service were able to attend INTERSCHUTZ 2026, the world's leading fire and rescue exhibition. Opportunities such as these allow our officers to engage with international experts, explore the latest innovations and bring valuable knowledge back to Gibraltar. Continuous professional development is essential if we are to maintain the highest operational standards and ensure our Service remains prepared for future challenges”.