VdS-FireSafetyTalk (German language)
A new edition of the live talk format at VdS-FireSafety Cologne on 2 and 3 December 2026
On 2 and 3 December 2026, you can experience the popular VdS-FireSafetyTalks live at Koelnmesse in Cologne. In moderated 90-minute panel discussions, leading fire safety experts will explore key topics shaping the industry. Drawing on their diverse experience, perspectives and viewpoints, they will offer audiences a broad range of insights into each subject.
The talks will take place in German on the main stage in the exhibition hall as part of VdS-FireSafety Cologne.
Attendance is free of charge for all exhibition visitors.
The talk on 2 December 2026 | 11:30 - 13:00 p.m.
Trust lost? Who will report a fire if fire alarm systems are no longer wanted?
Almost every alarm is a false alarm: in Frankfurt, the false alarm rate for manual call points is around 99%. The result is overstretched emergency services and alarm fatigue, prompting the Frankfurt Fire Department to question the role of fire alarm systems as a compensatory measure in the building approval process. The consequences? Fewer systems, later detection and fires that the fire brigade learns about too late.
In London, since October 2024, the fire brigade has only responded to fire alarm activations in certain buildings during the day once the alarm has been confirmed. Reducing call-outs rather than reducing the number of systems: could this also be a solution for Germany? A pragmatic approach or playing with fire?
The VdS-FireSafetyTalk on 2 December 2026 will provide a platform for an open, critical and practice-oriented debate on how fire safety needs to be approached in the future.
The experts:
- Jonas Schwering, Frankfurt Fire Department, Chair of the AGBF Expert Committee on Preventive Fire and Hazard Protection
- Klaus Hirzel, Honeywell Technologies
- Thorsten Pfeiffer, VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH – Accredited Expert for Fire Alarm Systems
- Ulrich Rabe, VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH – Head of Fire Testing Laboratories
Moderator: Peter Schramm, VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH
The talk will be held in German.
The talk on 3 December 2026 | 11:30 - 13:00 p.m.
- The topics and experts will be announced shortly -
Are you interested in the topics covered in previous years’ VdS-BrandSchutzTalk events?
► Please feel free to visit and subscribe to our YouTube channel at VdS-FireSafetyTalk | YouTube