How can Virtual Reality (VR) enhance training, preparedness, and decision-making for first responders and civil protection professionals? 

Explore how immersive technologies are reshaping the way responders train, simulate complex scenarios, and interact with high-risk environments — all in safe, scalable, and cost-effective ways. This session brought together technology providers (CriSIS SIMULATION ENGiNEERING powering the simulation system of the "Centre Euro-Méditerranéen de Simulation des Risques" in Valabre), researchers (Western Norway University of Applied Sciences), and practitioners (National Fire Service School from Portugal) to share real-world examples, lessons learned, and future directions for VR in disaster risk management.

How can emergency responders better anticipate, contain, and suppress the growing risks posed by lithium-ion battery fires?

​Explore how cutting-edge research, large-scale fire trials, and emerging firefighting technologies are reshaping operational strategies for dealing with battery-related incidents, from electric vehicles to energy storage systems and industrial applications. This session brought together research organisations, technology providers, and practitioners to share operational feedback, scientific insights, and future directions for managing battery fires safely and effectively.

How can drones support emergency response while operating safely within controlled or complex airspace?

The DIREKTION webinar, with the support of COLLARIS network explored the growing use of drones in crisis management and the challenges linked to air traffic management, airspace coordination, and regulatory constraints.

This session brought together emergency responders, researchers, air navigation service providers, and industry experts to share practical experiences, operational lessons, and future directions for integrating drones into emergency response workflows.