More Support for First Responders

A new feature of the FRIEDA fire department app makes it easier for first responders to access information from the statutory accident insurance provider after an incident. The new button for the Thuringian Accident Insurance Fund was unveiled today at a joint press conference on the banks of the Saale River in Jena. The press conference was jointly organized by the Thuringian Ministry of the Interior, Municipal Affairs, and Regional Development, the Thuringian Accident Insurance Fund, and the Thuringian State Chancellery. The city of Jena supported the presentation with personnel and emergency equipment and, together with the fire department and emergency medical services, staged a realistic water rescue scenario.

Mayor and Head of Public Safety Benjamin Koppe explains: “Anyone who steps in during an emergency takes on responsibility and often bridges the critical minutes until the fire department and emergency medical services arrive. For this, first responders deserve our express recognition. It is equally important that, after providing assistance, they quickly learn what support they are entitled to and whom they can contact if they have been injured or if their personal belongings have been damaged. This new initiative provides greater clarity in this regard and facilitates access to statutory accident insurance.”

Among those attending the presentation were Andreas Bausewein, State Secretary for Municipal and Regional Development at the Thuringian Ministry of the Interior, Municipal Affairs, and Regional Development; Sabine Dexheimer, Executive Director of the Thuringian Accident Insurance Fund; and Benjamin Koppe, Mayor and Head of Public Safety for the City of Jena. Also present were representatives from other agencies and organizations responsible for safety.

Using the new UKT button, emergency responders can immediately direct first responders to the relevant accident insurance fund and its benefits. This is particularly relevant when people are injured while providing assistance or when personal belongings are damaged. The information can be accessed directly at the scene and discussed together.

Water Rescue Demonstrates Practical Application

The Jena Fire Department, emergency medical services, and state police demonstrated how the new service can be used in a real-life emergency scenario using a water rescue scenario. A passerby rescued a person from the Saale River and administered first aid. The fire department and emergency medical services then took over the rescue and provided further medical care. While providing assistance, the first responder sustained a minor injury. In addition, his clothing and cell phone were damaged by the water. The emergency responders then demonstrated how to access information from the Thuringia Accident Insurance Fund, identify the appropriate contacts, and explain the next steps.

This not only simulates the actual rescue. The scenario also demonstrates how first responders can be provided with specific information about their insurance coverage and potential benefits after their intervention.

Background on the FRIEDA App

FRIEDA stands for Fire Department, Rescue, Information, and Operational Data App. The app has been supporting Thuringia’s fire departments since early 2022 by providing important information for emergency operations. This includes, among other things, vehicle safety data sheets, information on hazardous materials, digital maps, and respiratory protection monitoring features.

Mehrere Menschen stehen vor der Saale und schauen in die Kamera.

Vertreterinnen und Vertreter des Thüringer Innenministeriums, der Unfallkasse Thüringen, der Stadt Jena sowie der beteiligten Einsatzkräfte nach der Vorstellung des neuen UKT-Buttons in der FRIEDA-App und dem Wasserrettungsszenario an der Saale.