French firefighters warn of resource shortages amid record wildfires and strike

French firefighters and forestry agents are raising alarms regarding insufficient resources and personnel following a summer of unprecedented megafires. In 2026, approximately 120,000 hectares of forest were destroyed, marking a record loss of forest surface area for the country. In the Gironde region alone, fires burned 42,000 hectares, creating intense conditions that generated their own weather patterns and swirling winds.

In response to these challenges and worsening working conditions, eight of the nine representative firefighter organizations have called for a national strike mobilization from September 8 to October 20. The movement seeks to pressure the government regarding the 2027 finance bill and upcoming modernization texts. Key demands include sustainable funding for fire and rescue services, increased recruitment of professional firefighters, and better recognition of physical and psychological wear, as well as exposure to toxic and carcinogenic agents. The strike follows a reported 35% increase in interventions since 2000 and a 114% increase in person-to-person rescues.