who we are
Every community deserves a fire and rescue service it can count on
Fire and rescue services protect lives, livelihoods and the infrastructure that communities depend on. Yet access to equipment, training and operational support is not equal around the world. FIRE AID exists to connect the global fire community so all fire and rescue services have the partnerships, knowledge and resources they need to build lasting capability.
Our IMPACT since 2012
the global fire gap
Fire service capacity is not equal. Globally, communities face the same emergencies with very different levels of protection. Some have well funded fire and rescue services. Others protect growing populations without the vehicles, equipment, training or infrastructure they need, putting their own lives at risk to help others.
At the same time, operational vehicles and equipment are retired elsewhere despite being perfectly useable. Without established pathways to redistribute these resources, a critical gap remains between available capacity and operational need.
Fire and rescue capability is rarely recognised as part of international development, yet it underpins almost every aspect of it. Communities cannot recover from disasters or conflict, attract investment or build resilience if emergency services cannot respond effectively. When we strengthen fire and rescue services, we strengthen the communities they protect.
This inequality is the Global Fire Gap.
HOW WE BUILD RESILIENCE
We work to close the Global Fire Gap building safer, more resilient communities. Providing fire services with expertise, equipment and advocacy where they are needed most.
EQUIPMENT
We work with fire and rescue services and manufacturers to identify serviceable vehicles and equipment and match them to operational need, then coordinate the logistics that put them back into frontline service.
Expertise
Every project is supported by training. Serving and retired firefighters share practical skills and operational expertise through a train-the-trainer approach, building local capability that lasts long after the project is complete.
ADVOCACY
Fire and rescue services are essential to resilient communities, yet their role is still overlooked in international development. FIRE AID champions their contribution to disaster risk reduction, emergency response and community resilience.
“We do not believe in short-term fixes. Every project is built on partnership, respect, and sustainability. Equipment donations are paired with training. Skills are transferred, not imposed. Local expertise is valued and strengthened.”
How we do it
Our model
We connect surplus UK kit with the services that need it most.
Building resilience together
We believe every community should have a fire and rescue service it can rely on. Together, we can strengthen local services and build resilience for generations to come.