The 19th issue of the Union Civil Protection Knowledge Network (UCPKN) newsletter has been published on the occasion of the European Civil Protection Forum (CPF), taking place in Brussels on 3 and 4 November 2026. This special edition explores key topics addressed at the Forum and provides a wide range of insights into current developments, challenges and innovative approaches in European civil protection.
A particular focus is placed on preparing the public for crises and disasters. Among other things, the newsletter presents new EU guidelines designed to help Member States better prepare their populations for crisis situations. Key topics include individual preparedness, self-sufficiency during the first 72 hours of a crisis, raising awareness and sharing knowledge in schools, and inclusive emergency preparedness for people with disabilities.
In addition, the newsletter explores the role of emergency responders, volunteers and innovative support systems. An interview with a French female firefighter highlights the challenges of the 2026 wildfire season, as well as the psychological and physical demands placed on emergency responders. Other contributions introduce a communication programme that facilitates interaction with deaf and hard-of-hearing people in emergency situations, alongside innovative search and rescue concepts involving specially trained rats and rescue dogs.
Current climate-related challenges are also addressed. One article examines the heatwaves of summer 2026 and demonstrates how Copernicus data can help predict extreme heat events. Furthermore, this issue looks back at the 50th anniversary of the Seveso disaster, highlighting the importance of long-term learning from past disasters.
This latest issue provides a diverse overview of European approaches to strengthening crisis preparedness, advancing civil protection and promoting cross-border knowledge exchange.
The full newsletter, Issue 19 of the Union Civil Protection Knowledge Network, is available here.