Lugano firefighters set 24/7 operations record in 2025

Context

In brief

• 1,599 rescue interventions in 2025
• 24/7 operativity from 2026
• 2,200 services to the population

Key facts

• What: Record interventions by Lugano firefighters
• When: 2025
• Where: Lugano
• Who: Lugano civic firefighters corps
• Amount: 3,799 total services

The year 2025 will be remembered as a record year for the Lugano civic firefighters corps. With 1,599 rescue interventions, the highest figure ever recorded, and 2,200 services for the population, the overall activity reached a total of 3,799 services. These numbers tell a story of constant commitment and an increasingly central role for the safety of the community. This was emphasized by commander Federico Sala during the press conference held this morning at the fire station on via Trevano 127. 'On average,' he explains, 'we receive about 11 calls a day.' Several projects are in the pipeline for 2026, including the switch to 24-hour operativity.

Increasing interventions

Compared to 2024, when there were 1,463 interventions, there were 136 more call-outs. An increase that confirms a trend that has emerged in recent years. In detail, there were 629 interventions for fires, 97 rescues, 58 natural events and 423 disinfections. To find a figure similar to last year's, you have to go back to 2023, when interventions reached 1,598.

Rescues and assistance

During the year, 91 people were rescued and 21 animals were recovered from dangerous situations. These are added to the assisted evacuation operations: 199 people and four animals who, although able to leave on their own, needed the support of the firefighters.

An evolving corps

Today, 'the civic firefighters corps consists of 166 members, including 32 professionals and 11 trainees. Alongside them, specialized technicians support operational decisions. During the year, ten new volunteer firefighters were also added,' Sala emphasizes. The number of women is also increasing, reaching seven.

The impact of Crans-Montana

And if last year was not characterized by particularly significant events on the fire front, 2026 was instead marked by high-impact episodes, including the tragedy of Crans-Montana. An event that contributed to fueling, even outside the Valais, the perception of an increase in fires. But is this really a real trend? 'No, I think it's mostly a perception,' Sala assured. 'The interventions we have faced are absolutely not linked to a growth in events attributable to that type of episode or to a change in general sensitivity.' And when asked about a possible increase in deliberate acts by mythomaniacs, the commander specifies: 'In principle, no. About a month ago, two fires occurred in Malcantone that, according to initial information, were started by a firefighter, but these are very rare cases.'

Towards 24-hour service

Looking to the future, 2026 will bring new hires, two competitions have been opened: one for 4-5 trainee professional firefighters and one for a mechanical workshop manager. The goal is to reach a staff of 46-47 professionals. 'A necessary growth,' emphasizes the ca

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The increase in interventions and the new 24/7 operations of Lugano's firefighters will have a significant impact on the safety and quality of life for cross-border workers living and working in Ticino. With more interventions, firefighters will be able to respond more quickly to emergencies, which is particularly important for those living in residential areas or working in high-risk sectors.

Comparison with previous years

The comparison with previous years shows a clear trend: interventions by Lugano's firefighters are steadily increasing. In 2023, there were 1,598 interventions, while in 2024 this number rose to 1,463. In 2025, there was a further increase, reaching 1,599. This trend is also confirmed by the number of services to the population, which went from 2,200 in 2024 to 2,200 in 2025, with a total of 3,799 services overall.

Practical scenarios

For cross-border workers, the increase in interventions and the new 24/7 operations mean greater safety and a faster response in case of emergencies. For example, in the event of fires or natural disasters, firefighters will be able to intervene more quickly, reducing risks to the population. Additionally, the increase in the number of volunteer and professional firefighters will ensure better territorial coverage, especially in more remote areas.

Concrete procedures

For cross-border workers who wish to contribute to community safety, it is possible to become volunteer firefighters. The Corpo civici pompieri di Lugano has opened two competitions for aspiring professional firefighters and for a mechanical workshop manager. This represents an opportunity for cross-border workers to further integrate into the community and contribute to public safety.

Comparisons with other regions

The comparison with other Swiss regions shows that Lugano is at the forefront of emergency management. With the increase in interventions and the new 24/7 operations, Lugano sets a model for other Swiss cities. This is particularly important for cross-border workers living and working in Ticino, as it ensures a high level of safety and a quick response in case of emergencies.

Recommended tools

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Key points

What cross-border workers can do

For cross-border workers who wish to contribute to the safety of the community, it is possible to become volunteer firefighters. The Corpo civici pompieri di Lugano has opened two competitions for aspiring professional firefighters and for a mechanical workshop manager. This represents an opportunity for cross-border workers to further integrate into the community and contribute to public safety.

Procedure to become a volunteer firefighter

1. Get informed: Contact the Corpo civici pompieri di Lugano to obtain information about the requirements and selection procedures. 2. Submit the application: Fill out and submit the application to participate in the competition. 3. Pass the selections: Participate in the selections and pass the physical and theoretical tests. 4. Training: Follow the training path required to become a volunteer firefighter. 5. Start the service: Once the training is completed, start the service as a volunteer firefighter.

Useful tools

For further information and to calculate your net salary, you can use the salary calculator. This tool allows you to obtain an accurate estimate of your net income, taking into account taxes and social contributions.

Conclusion

The increase in interventions and the new 24/7 operation of the firefighters of Lugano represent an important step for the safety and quality of life of cross-border workers. With the increase in the number of volunteer and professional firefighters, the community of Lugano will be able to respond more effectively to emergencies, ensuring a high level of security for all residents and workers.

Source: tio.ch