From July 28 to August 4, 2024, Edwin Kok, a representative of the Netherlands Fire Service, participated in an invaluable Short-term Scientific Mission (STSM) hosted by the Portuguese National Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC). This exchange, part of the NERO COST Action, allowed Edwin to work closely with the NAD-AIR wildfire analysis group, deepening his understanding of the advanced systems used in Portugal for predicting and analyzing fire behavior.

Throughout the week, Edwin was guided by Dr. Akli Benali and a team of wildfire analysts, learning to use data from cameras, airplanes, ground units, and weather reports to create strategic and real-time wildfire analyses. He also gained hands-on experience with GIS systems for fire mapping and developing timelines of fire progression. This knowledge was tested when he was asked to conduct and present his strategic wildfire analysis to the NAD-AIR team.

Kok’s participation extended beyond analysis; he engaged in discussions with ANEPC commanders about resource management, unit prepositioning, and the European Commission’s UCPM and RescEU systems. He also attended daily briefings and meetings with the Emergency Response and Coordination Center in Brussels, providing him with a comprehensive view of the operations.

The exchange underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration between the Netherlands Fire Service and ANEPC, particularly as northern Europe faces the increasing likelihood of increased wildfire activity in the near future. Edwin emphasized that the knowledge and experience shared by southern European countries like Portugal are crucial for preparing northern European countries for future wildfire challenges. This STSM within the NERO COST Action was a unique opportunity to learn about data analysis, systematic wildfire prediction, and resource management, and it highlighted the essential need for cross-border cooperation.

Read the full report of Edwin’s STSM here.