As part of European Fire Safety Week 2025 (EUFSW25), policymakers, fire safety experts, and industry representatives gathered at the European Parliament for a high-level discussion on the future of fire prevention in Europe. The event aimed to reinforce a shared message: no European home can be considered sustainable, affordable, or decent if it is not fire safe. EUMEPS was invited to take part in this exchange, with Emanuela Gallo, EU Technical Affairs Manager, representing the organisation.
A European Debate Focused on Prevention and Protection
The meeting placed fire safety at the centre of European housing and building policy. Speakers underlined a common responsibility shared between Member States and EU institutions: fire safety must remain a constant priority across Europe’s residential and public buildings.
Throughout the discussion, policymakers emphasised that fire risks remain significant and require continuous attention. Prevention, rather than reaction, was highlighted as a core principle that should guide future regulation and building standards.
EUMEPS’ Contribution to the Conversation
EUMEPS joined the debate to underline the importance of integrating prevention and fire safety considerations into the design, construction, and renovation of buildings. The association welcomed the opportunity to exchange with European legislators on how policy can better support early risk mitigation, especially as Europe accelerates renovation efforts and energy-efficiency improvements.
For EUMEPS, the message is clear: safety and sustainability must go hand in hand. Ensuring that insulation solutions and construction materials contribute to safer living environments is a fundamental part of that effort.
Insights From the European Parliament
Members of the European Parliament reaffirmed that fire safety should be embedded systematically in EU policy. MEP Ciaran Mullooly captured the spirit of the event with a clear reminder: “Fire safety should never be an afterthought.”
Speakers agreed that EU initiatives on housing, building renovation, and sustainability would benefit from stronger integration of fire safety principles. Better data collection, improved cooperation with national authorities, and closer alignment with industry expertise were identified as key next steps.
Conclusion
The high-level meeting at the European Parliament offered an important platform to reflect on the role of fire safety in Europe’s future building policies. EUMEPS’ participation underlines the association’s commitment to contributing constructively to discussions that impact both citizens and industry.
As European Fire Safety Week continues to grow, EUMEPS will remain engaged in efforts to support prevention, improve fire safety standards, and promote a responsible approach to construction and renovation across Europe.