This Saturday evening, another dramatic rescue operation took place on the Rhine in Mainz. For the second time in a single weekend, a person got into trouble while swimming in the river. The man had gone into the water to cool off, but was caught off guard by the current and was unable to get back to shore due to the high quay wall.

The Mainz Fire Department responded immediately with a large-scale operation: a total of seven vehicles and three boats were deployed to rescue the man. The emergency responders were able to secure him with ropes and finally bring him to safety by boat. In addition to the fire department, the police, water police, and emergency medical services were also on site to coordinate the rescue operation.

Why swimming in the Rhine is so dangerous

The Rhine is one of the busiest waterways in Europe, yet many underestimate the risks posed by this river. The current is often invisible and unpredictable—even when the surface is calm, it can be strong. Especially near Mainz, where the Main flows into the Rhine, the current conditions become even more unpredictable. Just a few meters from the shore, a person can be swept away by the current.

Important Safety Tips

   - Unpredictable currents: The Rhine is not only wide but also dangerous.
  The current is difficult to
  predict and can sweep even experienced swimmers away.
  - Boat traffic: The river has heavy traffic. Ships and boats
  have a long stopping distance and can easily overlook swimmers, which
  can be fatal.
   - Structures in the water: Piers, bridge piers, and sheet piles are
  obstacles that create dangerous currents and
  can cause injuries.
Incidentally, the area where the man was rescued is officially off-limits for swimming. This rule is not a nuisance but serves to protect everyone—because swimming in the Rhine is life-threatening.

What should you do if you fall into the water?

   - Stay calm—panic is your worst enemy.
  - Turn onto your back—this keeps your head above water and makes it
  easier to breathe.
   - Let the current carry you – fighting
  against the current is pointless and dangerous.
  - Head for a safe bank – as soon as possible.
  - Call for help – draw attention
  to yourself by waving or shouting.
Appeal from the Mainz Fire Department:

Please do not enter the Rhine to bathe or swim. Instead, use the official, supervised swimming areas in the region. The risk of drowning in the Rhine is high—even for experienced swimmers.

The Mainz Fire Department would like to thank the observant passersby who made the emergency call, as well as all emergency responders for their quick and professional response.

1. Traffic accident - Hartenberg/Münchfeld - June 5, 2025, 10:27 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

An automatic eCall triggered a response at the City Port parking garage this morning. Upon arrival, a BMW was found on the first floor that had crashed into a wall. Two occupants were in the vehicle but were uninjured and declined medical treatment. The fire department secured the vehicle, disconnected the battery, and handed the scene over to the police. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 12 personnel

2. Cat on Roof - Weisenau - June 5, 2025, 11:47 a.m. - 12:43 p.m.

A cat was stuck on a roof on Bleichstraße. While the fire department was still arriving with an aerial rescue vehicle, the animal managed to get back down to solid ground on its own. The operation was concluded. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

3. Water Leak - Finthen - June 6, 2025, 5:51 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Water damage occurred in several apartments in an apartment building on Sertoriusring. The water supply had already been shut off by the owner before the fire department arrived. The fire department used a water vacuum, removed soaked carpets, and also inspected the apartments below for damage. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

4. Injured Bird - Neustadt - June 5, 2025, 1:23 p.m. - 3:52 p.m.

An injured bird was found on the grounds of Fire Station 2. After being secured, the animal was handed over to animal shelter staff. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

5. Reported tram fire – Old Town – June 5, 2025, 1:55 p.m. – 2:24 p.m.

Smoke was reported coming from a tram at Schillerplatz. However, no fire was found on site—apparently, an overheated brake was the cause of the smoke. The scene was taken over by the Mainz Transport Authority (MVG). Resources deployed: 11 vehicles, 36 personnel, 1 command vehicle/LNA

6. Oil spill - Bretzenheim - June 5, 2025, 6:37 p.m. - 8:55 p.m.

A fuel spill covering approximately 0.5 m² was reported on Albrecht-Dürer-Straße. The fire department secured the area and collected the fuel. After consulting with the police, the vehicle’s owner was notified and took over the cleanup. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

1. Fire in an office building – Old Town – June 6, 2025, 5:28–7:33 p.m.

The fire alarm system was triggered by burning bulky waste in the stairwell of an office building. The fire was extinguished and the building was mechanically ventilated. The scene was handed over to the building superintendent. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 12 personnel

2. Water damage in basement apartment – Upper Town – June 6, 2025, 5:17–7:01 p.m.

A malfunction in a water softening system caused water damage to approximately 60 m² of a basement apartment. The water was pumped out using a submersible pump; a wet vacuum remained on site. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

3. Smell of smoke in apartment – Hechtsheim – June 6, 2025, 7:17–8:32 p.m.

Burnt food caused heavy smoke in an apartment. The fire department extinguished the smoke while wearing breathing apparatus and ventilated the rooms. The apartment remained habitable. Resources deployed: 7 vehicles, 26 personnel

4. Smell of burning from a grill – Weisenau – June 6, 2025, 7:29–8:34 p.m.

A reported smell of burning was traced to a charcoal grill on a balcony. After inspection, the fire department did not need to take any action. Resources deployed: 7 vehicles, 24 personnel

5. Injured cat – Hechtsheim – June 6, 2025, 8:51–9:48 p.m.

An apparently injured cat was reported. The fire department cared for the animal; the owner later took it to the veterinarian themselves. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

6. Trash fire – Laubenheim – June 6, 2025, 11:17–11:44 p.m.

Paper waste was burning on an advertising column. The fire department extinguished the fire using a rapid intervention hose. A possible suspect was handed over to the police. Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 12 personnel

7. Burning patrol car – Old Town – June 7, 2025, 1:54–3:04 a.m.

A patrol car caught fire in the area of the vehicle battery. The fire department extinguished the fire using a pressure hose S. The criminal investigation department has launched an investigation. Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 6 personnel

8. Branch on roadway – Old Town – June 7, 2025, 1:30–2:07 p.m.

A large branch was protruding into the roadway. The fire department safely removed the obstruction. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

9. Pigeon rescue – Old Town – June 7, 2025, 8:07–9:10 p.m.

A pigeon was trapped between a window and a grille. The rescue was carried out using a turntable ladder. The pigeon rescue service took custody of the bird after examination. Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 4 personnel

10. Serial activation of fire alarm system – Gonsenheim – June 8, 2025, 12:37 a.m.–3:02 a.m.

In a high-rise building, fire alarm buttons were deliberately activated multiple times, triggering the fire alarm system. The fire department checked several floors in total. A suspect could not be apprehended. The police are investigating. Resources deployed: 6 vehicles, 22 personnel

11. Person in elevator - Oberstadt - June 8, 2025, 3:11–3:58 a.m.

Three people were trapped in a stuck elevator. They were able to free themselves. The fire department took the elevator out of service. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

12. Traffic accident with debris – A60 Finthen – June 8, 2025, 3:54–4:53 a.m.

A passenger car had crashed into a guardrail, and fluids were leaking. The fire department secured the scene and removed debris. The driver was examined by emergency medical services and refused transport to the hospital. Resources deployed: 5 vehicles, 18 personnel

A loud fire alarm is currently sounding in the downtown area due to a technical malfunction. Firefighters are on the scene; there is no immediate danger.

Please refrain from calling the emergency number 112 with inquiries.

1. Animal Rescue - Injured Pigeon - Neustadt - June 8, 2025, 2:22–3:09 p.m.

An injured pigeon was captured by the fire department and taken to an animal shelter for further care. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

2. Trash can fires in Volkspark – Oberstadt – June 8, 2025, 4:03–4:42 p.m. and June 9, 2025, 7:25–8:04 p.m.

On two consecutive days, fires broke out in large-capacity trash bins in Volkspark. The cause in each case was improperly disposed of charcoal or disposable grills. The fires were quickly extinguished using a pressure hose. The police launched an investigation. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle and 6 personnel per incident

3. Branch on roadway – no response – Bretzenheim – June 8, 2025, 10:26–10:49 p.m.

A reported tree branch turned out to be merely leaves on the roadway. Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 6 personnel

4. Door opening for medical emergency – Laubenheim – June 9, 2025, 2:47–3:33 a.m.

A frail person was unable to open the door on their own. The fire department gained access and subsequently secured the apartment in consultation with the police. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 12 personnel

5. Traffic accident on the A60 – near Finthen – June 9, 2025, 12:22–1:34 p.m.

A passenger car had spun out on the Gonsbachtal Bridge; a motorhome was also involved. Three people were injured, and coolant leaked over a distance of about 300 meters. The fire department secured the accident scene, ensured fire safety, and assisted the police with securing the area. Resources deployed: 5 vehicles, 18 personnel

6. Person Trapped in Public Restroom – Oberstadt – June 9, 2025, 12:46–1:48 p.m.

A man was trapped inside a restroom stall. The fire department opened the door using special tools; the person was uninjured. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

7. Door opening for medical emergency – Oberstadt – June 9, 2025, 7:00–7:13 p.m.

A neighbor alerted emergency services after a woman stopped responding to calls. The door was opened, and the ambulance service took over care. Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 10 personnel

8. Balcony fire caused by electric grill - Gonsenheim - June 9, 2025, 6:05–6:36 p.m.

An electric grill had caught fire on a balcony. The residents initially attempted to extinguish the fire themselves; the fire department inspected and ventilated the affected apartment. The fire was prevented from spreading. The apartment was undamaged. Resources deployed: 5 vehicles, 13 personnel

9. Animal rescue – injured crow from a roof – Mombach – June 9, 2025, 6:32–7:57 p.m.

A crow had become trapped on a roof. The fire department freed the animal, treated it, and handed it over to a veterinarian. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

10. Water damage caused by a defective shower - Oberstadt - June 9, 2025, 9:32–10:32 p.m.

Water was dripping through the ceiling of an apartment. The cause was a defective shower connection in the apartment above. The fire department inspected both units. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

11. Other minor and false alarms

In several cases, no intervention was necessary or the situations were minor:

   - Branch on the roadway (no action taken)
  - Access to the apartment for family members
  - Door openings without immediate danger
  - Manhole cover replaced

At approximately 6:15 p.m. this evening, the Mainz Fire Department was called to a fire at a fast-food restaurant on Forsterstraße. When emergency responders arrived, flames and smoke were already visible. The fire department responded immediately and began fighting the fire.

A team equipped with self-contained breathing apparatus was deployed to fight the fire. In addition, a turntable ladder was used to inspect the upper floors and check the apartments. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and everyone was brought to safety in time.

The fast-food restaurant staff had already attempted to extinguish the fire, but it had grown too large to be put out in this manner. After about 1.5 hours, the operation was concluded, and the scene was handed over to the police, who have launched an investigation.

The fire department would like to expressly point out that people should never attempt to extinguish a fire themselves if doing so could put them in danger. In an emergency, it is always better to call the fire department and get to safety.

In addition to the two stations of the professional fire department, the Mainz City Volunteer Fire Department, as well as emergency medical services and the police, were also on the scene with several vehicles.

1. Animal rescues – Oberstadt & Weisenau – June 10, 2025, 11:05 a.m.–9:37 p.m.

Several animal rescues were carried out during the day. An injured pigeon was taken to the animal shelter, and a small bird was handed over for veterinary care. In another case, a young cat could not be captured on a construction site. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle and 2 personnel each

2. Smoke in an apartment - Gonsenheim - June 10, 2025, 1:23–1:49 p.m.

An oven caused smoke to develop in an apartment. By the time the fire department arrived, the apartment had already been ventilated by the residents. One person was examined by emergency medical services as a precaution. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

3. Extensive oil spill – Gonsenheim – June 10, 2025, 8:16–9:51 p.m.

An oil spill stretched for about two kilometers across several streets in the Gonsenheim district. The fire department secured the roadway and handed the scene over to a specialized company for cleanup. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

4. CO₂ Gas Leak in Basement - Old Town - June 10, 2025, 9:22–10:50 p.m.

Following a report of a leaking CO₂ cylinder, low concentrations of the gas were detected in the basement of an apartment building. An employee of a restaurant was able to seal the cylinder before the fire department arrived. The fire department conducted ventilation measures and handed the scene over to the building operator. No one was injured. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 10 personnel

5. Four false alarms triggered by fire alarm systems – City area – June 10, 2025, between 11:55 a.m. and 7:16 p.m.

The fire department was called to four incidents where automatic fire alarm systems had been triggered. Among the locations affected were a department store, a hotel, an industrial facility, and a retail park. The false alarms were caused by technical malfunctions, water vapor, or other non-hazardous factors. In no case was there an actual fire. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles and 10 personnel each

1. CPR on a Sloped Area – Person Deceased – Lerchenberg – June 12, 2025, 10:19–12:37 a.m.

The fire department was called to respond to a person found unresponsive on a vegetated hillside on Fontanestraße. The person was lying in some bushes on a slope; the possibility of a fall down the slope could not be ruled out. Resuscitation efforts already underway were continued by the fire department but were unsuccessful—the person died at the scene. The exact cause of the incident is currently unknown. Privacy screens and psychosocial emergency response teams were deployed to protect the privacy of those involved and provide support to first responders. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 16 personnel

2. Smoke alarm triggered – burnt food – Gonsenheim – June 12, 2025, 11:17–11:57 a.m.

A triggered residential smoke alarm was reported in a residential building on Elsa-Brändström-Straße. Smoke was detectable. The fire department determined that burnt food was the cause. No intervention was necessary. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 14 personnel

3. Snake in department store – Animal shelter takes custody – Old Town – June 12, 2025, 2:36–3:45 p.m.

A snake approximately 20 cm long was discovered in a department store. The animal was secured by staff and subsequently transferred to the animal shelter. A final identification by experts is pending. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

4. Gas Leak from Car - Mombach - June 12, 2025, 4:30–6:18 p.m.

Fuel was leaking from a parked vehicle in front of a drugstore. The fire department secured the area and remained on site until the tow truck arrived. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

5. Smoke alarm triggered – burnt food – Hechtsheim – June 12, 2025, 11:14–11:47 p.m.

In a senior living facility, a smoke alarm was triggered by burnt food. The fire department inspected the affected areas; no damage occurred. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 16 personnel

6. Door opening – Bretzenheim – June 12, 2025, 11:00 PM–11:32 PM Following an emergency call regarding a potentially endangered person, the fire department opened an apartment door in a residential building on the street “An der Wied.” The person in question was located and handed over to emergency medical services.

Resources deployed: 2 vehicles, 8 personnel

7. Burnt food – Person in smoke-filled apartment – Neustadt – June 13, 2025, 1:40–2:14 a.m.

A home smoke detector alerted residents on Feldbergstraße. A person was found in a smoke-filled apartment and was attended to by emergency medical services. The apartment was ventilated. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 10 personnel

8. Summary: Minor and False Alarms – June 12–13, 2025

A total of seven calls were classified as minor or false alarms, including:

   - a reported oil spill in Hechtsheim (no action taken),
  - smoke development at the Mombach Bahnhof stop (nothing
  found),
  - an animal rescue (pigeon, no action taken),
  - three triggered automatic fire alarm systems with no damage,
  - and another call due to a beeping smoke detector with no
  damage.
Total personnel deployed: 7 vehicles, 20 people

Shortly before 1:30 p.m. this afternoon, the Mainz Fire Department was called to a fire at a dental office in Mainz’s Old Town. Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters observed light smoke inside the office. A team wearing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) searched the premises and identified the source of the smoke as an electrical device installed inside a cabinet. It was a so-called smoldering fire, in which no flames were visible. The fire was ultimately extinguished using a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher. The device was then removed and taken outside. After ventilating the office with a positive pressure fan, the fire department’s operation was concluded after about an hour. The behavior of the dental office staff present was exemplary and prudent. Upon recognizing the danger, the practice was immediately evacuated and the fire department alerted, ensuring that no one was ever in danger. The Mainz Fire Department responded with a total of five vehicles and 18 personnel from both stations of the professional fire department.

At 2:57 p.m., the Mainz Fire Department was alerted by the Mainz Integrated Control Center to a refrigerator on fire on a balcony in the Marienborn neighborhood.

By the time emergency responders arrived, the fire had already been extinguished by the resident and alert neighbors. A team wearing breathing apparatus inspected the smoke-filled apartment, checked the balcony area with a thermal imaging camera, and carried out mop-up operations. The apartment was then ventilated and checked with a multi-gas detector.

The resident received initial medical care from the emergency medical services as a precaution, but fortunately did not need to be transported to a hospital.

The Mainz Fire Department responded with four vehicles and 16 personnel. The emergency medical services provided support with an ambulance, and the police were also on the scene.

The Mainz Fire Department is currently on the scene.

Incident: Apartment fire in the rear building

Location: Große Weißgasse, Mainz Old Town

Casualties: 5 people affected, one of whom sustained minor injuries

Additional information: The smell of smoke is noticeable in the vicinity

Press spokesperson on site: No

Around 10:55 a.m., the Mainz Integrated Control Center received an emergency call reporting dark smoke coming from a rear building. Based on the emergency call and because it was unclear whether anyone was still inside the building, both fire stations of the Mainz Professional Fire Department and the Mainz-Stadt Volunteer Fire Department were alerted.

Upon the arrival of the emergency crews, the situation was confirmed: Part of a room on the first floor of a rear building was on fire. Flames were shooting out of a window and spreading to the roof sheathing of an adjacent flat roof. A smoldering fire developed under the roof sheathing, requiring a complex operation to open and inspect the area.

Since the turntable ladder could not reach the rear section of the building due to the dense development, fall protection for the emergency personnel was secured via a neighboring building. The work on the roof placed a considerable physical strain on the emergency personnel—the work was extremely strenuous, particularly due to the intense sunlight. By providing sufficient beverages and protective gear adapted to the operational conditions, the strain on the emergency personnel was reduced.

The fire was brought under control after about 20 minutes by a team wearing self-contained breathing apparatus. The mop-up operations continued for about two hours. The emergency medical services treated a total of five affected individuals, one of whom was transported to a nearby hospital for further medical care. An ambulance staffed by volunteers from the Maltese Relief Service was on standby throughout the entire operation to provide backup for the emergency personnel.

The Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) was subsequently called in to secure the damaged building and protect property. The THW’s operations were still ongoing at the time of this press release and are expected to be completed by evening. The police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. The extent of the damage is currently unclear.

The operation involved 23 personnel from the professional fire department at both stations and 9 personnel from the Mainz-Stadt Volunteer Fire Department. The Mainz-Bretzenheim Volunteer Fire Department provided staffing at Fire Station 1 during the operation, thereby ensuring safety in the rest of the city. It also provided on-site support with one crew member.

In addition to the fire department, 2 volunteers from the Maltese Aid Service, 8 members of the regular emergency medical services, 6 police officers, and 10 personnel from the THW were involved in the operation.

On Sunday afternoon, an apartment fire in Mainz-Hechtsheim led to a lengthy fire department response. No one was injured.

The Mainz Fire Department received a report via the 112 emergency line about smoke coming from the basement area of a residential building. Upon arrival, the emergency crews confirmed the situation.

A fire broke out in an apartment on the ground floor at the rear of a multi-family home on a hillside. While two teams wearing heavy-duty breathing apparatus located the source of the fire in the apartment and began firefighting operations, the affected building was searched and partially evacuated by additional fire and police personnel.

In the process, several apartments were found to be filled with smoke, which was cleared through natural ventilation. The emergency medical services examined three people who had attempted to extinguish the fire initially. Fortunately, no one was injured.

The electricity department of Mainzer Netze, which had also been alerted to the scene, cut off power to the affected apartment. After mechanically ventilating the apartment where the fire occurred and adjacent rooms, as well as conducting a further inspection of the building, the operation was concluded after approximately two hours.

In addition to the Mainz Fire Department with a total of 35 personnel, the emergency medical services with two vehicles, the police with several patrol crews and the criminal investigation unit, as well as the electrical department of Mainzer Netze were on the scene.

The police have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

In addition to several major incidents—which have already been reported on separately—last weekend also saw a large number of other rescue operations and minor fire calls within the city limits. Among other things, the Mainz Fire Department responded to technical rescue operations, animal rescues, and several false fire alarm activations.

1. Animal rescue: injured pigeon – Old Town – June 14, 2025, 8:08–9:38 a.m.

An injured pigeon was captured by the fire department and initially taken to the animal shelter. At the request of the staff, the animal was subsequently handed over to a veterinarian. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

2. Oil trail caused by a small diesel spill – Hechtsheim – June 14, 2025, 10:25–11:15 a.m.

A spot approximately 60 cm in size was covered with sand by the fire department. There was no longer a traffic hazard. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

3. False alarm caused by cooking fumes in a senior living facility – Hechtsheim – June 14, 2025, 11:35–12:06 a.m.

A fire alarm in a senior living facility was triggered by rising cooking fumes. The affected area was inspected, and the system was reset. Resources deployed: 6 vehicles, 16 personnel

4. Post-fire inspection: possible fire at a pergola or shelter - Mombach - June 14, 2025, 1:52–2:28 p.m.

A caller reported smoke in the area of a shelter. By the time the fire department arrived, no smoke was visible. The area was inspected with a thermal imaging camera—there was no further danger. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

5. Leaking fluids from a parked car - Old Town - June 14, 2025, 5:59–7:19 p.m.

Operating fluids were leaking from a parked vehicle. The spill was covered with absorbent material, and the scene was handed over to the Public Order Office. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

6. Reconnaissance: Leaning tree – Gonsenheim – June 14, 2025, 9:01–9:51 p.m.

A resident reported a tree leaning at an angle. The fire department could not identify any immediate danger. The area was cordoned off as a precaution. The property management was instructed to hire a specialized company. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

7. Smoke alarm beeping – Door opening required – Old Town – June 14, 2025, 8:12–8:56 p.m.

A beeping smoke alarm in an apartment on the fourth floor prompted the fire department to respond. The door was forced open; the apartment was empty. There was no fire. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 10 personnel

8. Smoke development on the A63 - A63 Mainz-Süd interchange - June 14, 2025, 10:00–10:16 p.m.

A reported vehicle fire turned out to be harmless dust generated during road marking work. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 14 personnel

9. Two fire alarm activations in a senior living facility – Oberstadt – June 14, 2025, 11:13–11:36 p.m. and June 15, 2025, 6:00–6:40 a.m. Two calls led the fire department to the same senior living facility within a short period of time. In the first incident, the system was activated without a specific cause; in the second, a push-button alarm was triggered. In both cases, no danger was found. Note: Intentionally triggering a push-button alarm without an emergency is a criminal offense. The police are investigating. Resources deployed: 5 vehicles and 16 personnel each

10. Technical alarm in storage room – Neustadt – June 15, 2025, 4:44–5:12 a.m.

An audible alarm was triggered by a malfunctioning level indicator. The area was inspected; no danger was found. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 12 personnel

11. Animal rescue: Puppies rescued - Laubenheim - June 15, 2025, 1:17–2:31 a.m.

The fire department assisted in securing and transporting three puppies to an animal shelter. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

12. Other calls (8 in total):

In addition, there were four false alarms triggered by fire alarm systems, two animal rescues not requiring intervention, one door opening without a medical emergency, and one eCall alarm with no findings.

1. Trailer on fire - Ebersheim - June 16, 2025, 10:52 a.m.–12:11 p.m.

A tractor trailer with a raised hunting platform on top caught fire across its entire length. The fire was extinguished by a team wearing breathing apparatus using a rapid intervention strategy. Follow-up extinguishing operations followed. The Ebersheim Volunteer Fire Department was also on the scene. The scene was subsequently handed over to the police. Resources deployed: 5 vehicles, 18 personnel

2. Smoke alarm triggers nighttime fire department response - Hartenberg/Münchfeld - June 17, 2025, 12:18 a.m.–12:48 a.m.

A triggered smoke alarm in a student dormitory led to a nighttime call. Burnt food was identified as the cause in the affected apartment. The apartment was ventilated, and the resident was expressly advised not to leave cooking unattended. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 12 personnel

3. Tree Threatening to Fall - Oberstadt - June 16, 2025, 7:02–7:53 p.m.

A rotten tree was leaning against another and threatened to fall. The fire department cordoned off the area as a precaution and handed the scene over to the Public Order Office. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

4. Minor animal rescues and animal recovery – Old Town / Bretzenheim / Upper Town – June 16, 2025

Throughout the day, the fire department was called to several incidents involving injured or dead animals. In one case, no intervention was necessary. The affected animals were disposed of properly. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle and 2 personnel each

5. Trash can fire at bus stop – Gonsenheim – June 16, 2025, 8:49–9:06 p.m.

A burning steel trash can at the Canisiusstraße bus stop was extinguished with a small amount of water. No further action was required. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

6. Person trapped in elevator – Hartenberg/Münchfeld – June 16, 2025, 5:34–6:05 p.m.

Two people, one of whom suffered from claustrophobia, were trapped in a stuck elevator. The fire department freed the trapped individuals; the elevator was subsequently taken out of service by a specialized company. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 6 personnel

7. Fire alarm in senior living facility - Oberstadt - June 16, 2025, 9:47–10:20 a.m.

A push-button alarm had been triggered in a senior living facility. No fire was detected on site. The system was reset. Two additional alarms had already been triggered at the same address during the night leading into Sunday. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 14 personnel

8. Vehicle fire on A63 – no damage detected – A63 highway – June 16, 2025, 4:06–4:44 p.m.

A reported vehicle fire turned out to be a false alarm. No fire could be detected on site. The operation was aborted. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 10 personnel

Early this morning, the Mainz Fire Department was alerted by the Integrated Control Center to respond to an incident at an apartment building in the Laubenheim neighborhood. The call was prompted by a gas leak resulting from construction work in the building.

When the emergency responders arrived, the workers on site had already shut off the main gas valve. Nevertheless, elevated gas concentrations were detected in the stairwell and in one apartment. As a precaution, the fire department evacuated the building and inspected all areas—no ongoing gas leak was detected.

Electric fans were used to ventilate the affected rooms. After about 30 minutes, the danger had been eliminated and the residents were able to return to their apartments.

The operation involved 27 members of the Mainz Fire Department, as well as police, emergency medical services, and a team from Mainzer Netze.

1. Kitchen fire with smoke damage – Oberstadt – June 18, 2025, 12:21–12:52 p.m.

A burning wooden board on a stove caused smoke to fill the stairwell of an apartment building. The fire department extinguished the small fire with a crew wearing breathing apparatus and ventilated the apartment. It was then returned to the tenant. Resources deployed: 6 vehicles, 22 personnel

2. Multi-vehicle traffic accident with injuries - A63 Mainz-Süd interchange, heading toward Kaiserslautern - June 18, 2025, 3:21–5:37 p.m.

A rear-end collision involving three vehicles required the fire department’s response. Seven people, including two children, were assessed and treated by emergency medical services. The fire department secured the scene, absorbed spilled fluids, and disconnected vehicle batteries. Traffic was diverted via the shoulder. Resources deployed: 6 vehicles, 26 personnel

3. Smell of gas from a leaking gas cylinder - Hartenberg/Münchfeld - June 19, 2025, 2:04–2:32 a.m.

A passerby reported a gas odor at a motorhome parking area. Upon arrival, the fire department identified an improperly connected gas cylinder in a motorhome as the cause and eliminated the hazard. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 16 personnel

4. Smell of gas in apartment with no findings - Gonsenheim - June 18, 2025, 10:46–11:28 p.m.

A resident reported a gas odor in his apartment building. The fire department conducted a thorough investigation of the area using detection equipment, but no hazard was found. Resources deployed: 4 vehicles, 16 personnel

5. Reported risk of collapse in underground garage due to water leak – Neustadt – June 19, 2025, 12:32–1:33 a.m.

The fire department was alerted to a suspicious bulge in the underground garage ceiling. The cause was water damage without an immediate risk of collapse. The scene was handed over to the owner. Resources deployed: 3 vehicles, 12 personnel

6. Oil spill following vehicle leak – Oberstadt – June 19, 2025, 10:36–11:26 a.m.

A passenger car lost operating fluids, which were absorbed by the fire department. The vehicle was removed from the public roadway, and the owner was notified. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle, 2 personnel

7. False alarms in fire alarm systems (BMA) – Neustadt – June 18 and 19, 2025

A total of 2 automatic fire alarm systems in commercial buildings triggered without any detectable incident. In all cases, the affected areas were inspected and the systems reset. Resources deployed: 6 vehicles, 24 personnel

8. False alarms from automatic emergency call systems (eCall) – Mombach & Lerchenberg – June 19, 2025

A total of 2 emergency calls from vehicle eCall systems triggered a fire department response. In both cases, there was no accident, so the operation was aborted in each instance. Resources deployed: a total of 7 vehicles, 28 personnel

9. Animal rescues in the city area - June 18–19, 2025

The fire department was called to a total of 6 incidents involving injured or stray animals. Among others, an injured jay, a young pigeon, a parakeet, and two stray dogs were treated and taken to the animal shelter. Resources deployed: 1 vehicle and 2 personnel each

This Saturday afternoon around 1:00 p.m., the Mainz Fire Department was called to a fire on a grassy and green area near the Mainz-Finthen District Sports Complex. The pilot of a light aircraft, who had flown over the scene, reported the fire to air traffic control, which then notified the Mainz Integrated Control Center. On site, approximately 450 square meters of grass and brush were burning. The fire was quickly extinguished using three hoses and special wildfire backpack pumps. These backpack pumps enable highly efficient fire suppression with maximum flexibility for grass fires such as this one. In addition to four vehicles from the professional fire department, the Mainz-Finthen Volunteer Fire Department was also on the scene with one vehicle, as well as the Mainz Police. A total of 25 emergency personnel were involved in the operation. The Ingelheim Fire Department was also alerted due to the initially unclear location, but did not need to take further action.

Note:

Due to the ongoing drought and high temperatures, the fire department warns of an increased risk of forest and vegetation fires. Even a moment of carelessness can have devastating consequences. Help prevent fires by acting responsibly in nature:

🔸 No open fires in the forest or near forests! Barbecues, campfires, and other open flames are strictly prohibited in and around forests.

🔸 Cigarettes do not belong in nature! Discarded cigarette butts can easily ignite dry grass and leaves—please use ashtrays and take your trash with you.

🔸 Do not park on dry grass! Hot vehicle parts such as catalytic converters or exhaust systems can cause fires—only park your car on solid, non-flammable surfaces.

🔸 Suspicious smoke or open flames? Don’t wait—alert the fire department immediately by calling 112!

The fire department appeals to all citizens: Mindfulness protects lives, nature, and property. Thank you for your cooperation!

Early Sunday afternoon, a tanker loaded with diesel ran aground while entering the Mainz-Mombach industrial port in the so-called "Mombacher Stromarm" branch of the Rhine. No one was injured, and there was no product spill. The tanker ran aground on a sandbar and was unable to free itself from the predicament under its own power. In consultation between the captain of the stranded vessel, the Water Police, and the Mainz Fire Department, an initial attempt was made to shift the weight by pumping fuel between the tank compartments. Unfortunately, this measure was unsuccessful. Finally, an attempt was made to tow the stranded vessel free with the assistance of the Mainz/Wiesbaden fireboat. Unfortunately, this also proved ineffective. Following further consultation between the captain, the Water Police, and the Mainz Fire Department, the Mainz Fire Department’s operation was terminated, as there were no further options for assistance from the fire department and no danger to people or the environment. The Water Police remained on site. The entrance to the Mainz-Mombach industrial port is currently blocked by the stricken vessel and is not accessible to large vessels.

Thirteen officers from the Mainz Professional Fire Department were on the scene with three vehicles, a multi-purpose boat, and a fireboat, as well as the Mainz Water Police with one boat and three officers.

At around 4:15 a.m., several emergency calls were received by the Mainz Integrated Control Center (I-ILS). Callers reported thick smoke and the smell of burning in the stairwell of an apartment building on "Am Zollhafen" in Mainz's Neustadt district. Upon arrival, the suspicion was confirmed: a major fire had broken out in a ground-floor apartment.

The eight-unit building was fully occupied at the time the fire broke out. Firefighters rescued nine people using turntable ladders; two additional people were led to safety through the smoke-filled stairwell using escape hoods. Two cats were also rescued.

The affected apartment is completely uninhabitable. The remaining apartments in the building were reopened after ventilation and inspection measures were completed. The building was completely evacuated, but the residents were able to return to their apartments after the operation.

The resident of the apartment where the fire broke out was already outside when emergency responders arrived. He was transported by the emergency medical services to a hospital in Mainz for further treatment.

Several teams wearing breathing apparatus were on the scene, and the fire was extinguished using two fire hoses. The Health Division took care of the affected residents at a nearby hotel.

In this context, the fire department strongly emphasizes: If there is smoke in the stairwell, do not enter it. Please remain in your apartment, make yourself visible at the window, and wait for assistance from the fire department.

The residents behaved in an exemplary manner and followed the instructions of the emergency personnel—we would like to express our sincere thanks for this.

No information can currently be provided regarding the extent of property damage or the cause of the fire. The police have launched an investigation.

In total, the Mainz Fire Department was involved in the operation with 9 vehicles and 32 personnel (both career and volunteer firefighters), the emergency medical services with 10 vehicles and 19 personnel, and the police with several vehicles and personnel.