Better, more harmonised statistics on fires and fire safety across the EU will soon be possible, thanks to a campaign undertaken by MEP Seán Kelly.
He has confirmed the inclusion of his preparatory action on harmonisation of fire statistics in the EU budget, having secured total funding of €1.5 million for the project.
This initiative builds on the success of the EU FireStat pilot project and aims to address critical data gaps in fire safety and contribute to the overall well-being of citizens.
“Fire safety is of paramount concern and reliable data is essential for effective policy making. The EU pilot project laid a solid foundation and this preparatory action will further our commitment to harmonising fire statistics,” said the Killarney-based MEP.
The comprehensive package, including 46 pilot projects or preparatory actions, was approved with a total commitment of €107.4 million. Mr Kelly’s preparatory action specifically received €1.5 million to advance its objectives.
The EU currently sorely lacks data fire safety and casualties, with fire fatalities constituting about two per cent of accidental deaths in the EU. The absence of a standardised EU data collection methodology has hindered effective policymaking.
Mr Kelly has welcomed the confirmation of funding for this preparatory action as “a significant milestone in advancing pan-European fire safety efforts”.
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