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.

How can emergency responders remain connected when communication networks are disrupted during crises?

​This DIREKTION webinar explored how resilient communication systems can support coordination, situational awareness, and decision-making in degraded or disrupted environments. The session set the scene with an overview of the European Critical Communication System (EUCCS) initiative, followed by a research-oriented perspective on the current state of the art in resilient communications.

The webinar concluded with the presentation of Hybrid Edge, an awarded solution illustrating how deployable and hybrid communication systems can support emergency response operations when conventional networks are unavailable. Speakers shared operational insights, lessons learned, and perspectives on strengthening communication resilience for first responders and civil protection authorities.

How can emergency responders rapidly assess air quality and protect themselves during hazardous incidents involving toxic releases or industrial accidents?

This session explored how emergency responders can rapidly assess air quality and manage risks during hazardous incidents involving toxic releases or industrial accidents. The webinar provided operational insights on emergency air monitoring strategies, followed by research perspectives and a presentation of innovative sensing technologies supporting real-time decision-making in the field.