The summer of 2026 was one of the most intense on record for forest fires in France, with tens of thousands of hectares burning, particularly in the Landes, Gironde, Corsica, and the Fontainebleau forest. These tragic events underscored the vital role of firefighters, several of whom lost their lives battling the flames.
Data from EFFIS shows that by mid-July 2026, over 42,000 hectares had already burned in France, a record high for that period since satellite records began in 2006. By the end of summer, the total reached nearly 100,000 hectares according to Copernicus data, amidst a backdrop of extreme heat and drought.
The municipality of Villejust, located in the Essonne department, wishes to highlight the essential work of the firefighters from the SDIS 91 (Departmental Fire and Rescue Service of Essonne). Interventions in the area are notably handled by the Orsay–Les Ulis Fire and Rescue Center (CIS), which comprises 65 firefighters and serves both urban and rural sectors.
The SDIS 91 is primarily funded by the Department of Essonne, with voluntary contributions from municipalities like Villejust. The mayor of Villejust, Igor Trickovski, sits on the SDIS 91's board of directors, ensuring local representation.
The article also details the paths of firefighters, both professional and volunteer. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is open to individuals aged 17 and above, subject to physical and medical requirements, and demands a strong civic commitment. In France, volunteers constitute 80% of the firefighting force, with nearly 1,970 engaged in Essonne.
The training of young firefighters (JSP) from the age of 13-14 is also emphasized, offering progressive learning about the profession and the values of civic engagement to nearly 29,000 young people across France.
Villejust is also home to a unique canine rescue center in Europe, where search and rescue dogs are trained. Established in 2015 by Lieutenant Marc Courtois, the center simulates disaster environments to train dogs in locating buried or missing persons, attracting national and international teams.
The center hosted the IRO 2026 tests on June 27 and 28, with 37 teams participating. The president of CSP France, whose name is not specified, expressed admiration for the dogs' olfactory capabilities, loyalty, and tenacity, as well as the profound bond formed with their handlers.
He extended thanks to the municipality and its residents for their acceptance and support, which enable the center's national and European reach and skill development.
