The Fluorn-Winzeln Fire Department at RUWI

Thanks, Fluorn-Winzeln Fire Department

On a training evening in June 2026, several emergency vehicles pulled into our yard. Hoses ran across the asphalt, the turntable ladder extended, and nozzles were put into position. The Fluorn-Winzeln Volunteer Fire Department had turned our new building into a training exercise – Commander Wolfgang Heim had prepared the evening with us. The assumed scenario: a fire in the warehouse.

Fire attack underway

Well-executed, clear plan

That evening, we saw what safety truly means in an emergency. Within minutes, the water supply was established, each team knew its task, and at the command post, a situation board tracked who was working where. Between actions, the firefighters explained the structure of the fire attack and what's important for a building like ours.

Fire Department Commander Wolfgang Heim explains the procedure to us

A fire department that handles more than you'd expect

For a community of around 3,200 residents, the fire department has its own turntable ladder – that's quite unusual. They also respond to neighboring communities when rescues at height are needed there. Over 40 active members support the department, plus a youth fire brigade and a children's group where the next generation is already training. All volunteer work, alongside jobs and family. And there when it counts.

The turntable ladder above our roof

Afterwards: tour, sausage, and beer

After the exercise, we switched roles: We gave the team a tour of the building and showed them what RUWI —from the workshop to the administrative offices. Then we fired up the grill.

What remains

Gratitude. The volunteers take responsibility for our region – we clearly expressed that this evening. Thanks to Commander Wolfgang Heim and the entire fire department. Evenings like these are moving.