CTIF explained: New video explores international fire service network
Iain Hoey
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CTIF video presents global overview of firefighting cooperation
Comité Technique International de prevention et d’extinction de Feu, or CTIF, has released an updated explainer video to coincide with its Delegates Assembly, held in Sofia on 12 June 2025.
According to CTIF, the video features interviews with current and past Executive Committee members, many of which were recorded during the 2024 Delegates Assembly in Oslo.
The video is intended to be a living resource, with CTIF stating that it plans to continue updating it with contributions from all current Executive Committee members.
The organisation added that the video includes footage and commentary from past events and participants across its global membership network.
The release was part of a broader effort to improve awareness of CTIF’s international role and evolving fire and rescue challenges.
CTIF members highlight shared global priorities
CTIF reported that the video includes interviews with committee members from various countries, reflecting on the value of knowledge-sharing between nations.
One contributor said CTIF was essential for “the exchange of knowledge not only in your own country but around the world”.
Another stated that CTIF provided a “shortcut to get the proper knowledge” to support national fire services without duplicating efforts.
Others commented on the importance of international cooperation to address climate-related fire risks, such as increased forest fires in Canada and Australia.
Several speakers noted the importance of strengthening both professional and volunteer fire services through shared strategies and improved communication.
The role of CTIF in fire service development
CTIF explained that it was established in 1900 in Paris with the aim of improving knowledge exchange between fire and rescue services.
According to the organisation, it now includes several million members across 36 countries and works through a system of commissions, working groups and associate memberships.
One speaker in the video said CTIF helps small countries without access to advanced technologies learn from others with more experience.
Others highlighted CTIF’s contribution to the professionalisation of services in newer member states, such as Slovenia.
The Slovenian Firefighters Association acknowledged CTIF as one of the first international organisations to formally recognise Slovenia in 1992.
Events, statistics and competitions
CTIF noted that its annual Delegates Assembly brings together representatives from across its membership to discuss fire service strategy and vote on key decisions.
It stated that while most work occurs throughout the year in commissions, the Assembly is a key event for networking and aligning international efforts.
According to CTIF, the organisation also compiles global fire statistics, including data from 80 countries and 90 capital cities.
CTIF said its international competitions involve 3,500 participants from more than 30 countries and attract over 10,000 spectators.
It added that the competitions serve both as skills showcases and a tool for building global cooperation and recruiting younger generations into the fire service.
The structure and mission of CTIF
CTIF described itself as an international technical body connecting fire and rescue services, manufacturers, and sectoral associations.
The organisation explained that it brings together both public and private actors to promote well-trained, well-equipped fire and rescue operations.
Speakers in the video emphasised the need for joint development of new techniques and equipment, especially in response to complex emergencies.
One participant said: “Firefighters, if they know what they are dealing with, there is actually no problem. We just have to know. We just have to have information.”
Another concluded: “We talk the same language in that regard, and we’ve always had a great relationship.”
Watch the video below
CTIF releases updated explainer video on international fire service work: Summary
CTIF released a new explainer video during its 12 June 2025 Delegates Assembly in Sofia.
The video features interviews with members of the CTIF Executive Committee.
Many interviews were conducted at the 2024 Delegates Assembly in Oslo.
The video also includes contributions from other CTIF members throughout the year.
CTIF stated it intends to keep the video regularly updated.
Speakers in the video discuss knowledge-sharing between fire services globally.
CTIF said its work supports both professional and volunteer fire services.
It was founded in 1900 in Paris to promote international knowledge exchange.
CTIF has several million members across 36 countries.
The organisation compiles fire statistics from 80 countries and 90 capitals.
Its competitions involve 3,500 participants from over 30 countries.
The Delegates Assembly is hosted annually by a different member country.
CTIF describes itself as an international technical body for the fire sector.