Christmas alarm in Finow: Fire brigade sounds the smoke detector!
On December 24, 2025, there was a fire brigade operation in Eberswalde because of a smoke detector. No danger identified.

Christmas alarm in Finow: Fire brigade sounds the smoke detector!
Christmas, this special festival of reflection, brought an unexpected mission for the fire department in Eberswalde. On December 24, 2025, shortly after 7 a.m., a smoke alarm was triggered on Finower Eberswalder Straße. The seven firefighters from the professional fire department were quickly on site to check that everything was going well. However, a serious danger was quickly eliminated and a fire-fighting operation was not necessary. The officers were able to reset the fire alarm system and carried out a thorough follow-up inspection. This operation lasted a total of about half an hour and once again shows how important the fire brigade is in everyday life, even on holidays when most people gather with their families.
During the contemplative pre-Christmas period, the firefighters of the Eberswalde professional fire department prepared for their tasks. The last training service of the year took place on December 17, 2025. The aim was to bring the vehicles and technology up to date. All equipment was comprehensively checked to ensure its suitability for use. All compartments were cleaned and neatly stowed, while the crew cabins were also given a thorough inspection. The evening was rounded off with a cozy get-together where we looked back on the past year and celebrated the solidarity in the group.
The role of the fire department in Germany
The fire brigade plays a key role in Germany and makes an indispensable contribution to safety. According to current statistics, there were around 48,100 fire departments across the country at the end of 2022, with most being volunteer fire departments and comprising over a million members. In recent years, the focus of operations has increasingly shifted to rescue and protective measures. In 2022, the fire department responded to around 229,000 fires and explosions, while the number of technical assistance and animal rescues also increased.
An alarming aspect is the increase in false alarms, which rose to around 403,000 cases in 2022. These figures underscore the challenges facing the fire service and show how important the ongoing training and commitment of emergency services is. Of particular concern is the rise in violent crimes against firefighters, with around 687 incidents in 2023 affecting around 1,070 people. Most incidents were registered in North Rhine-Westphalia and Berlin, which makes it clear that the work of emergency services is often associated with risks.
A situation like the one that took place in Finow on Christmas Eve shows that the fire brigade is called upon not only in the event of a fire, but also in false alarm situations. This requires constant vigilance and commitment, while the fire service must continue to gain strength in the face of the growing challenges posed by operations and social tensions. It is hoped that people will appreciate the work of the fire service and, next Christmas, remember the important role of emergency services who are ready to help on even the most festive days.