National Firefighters Congress 2023

The Congrès National des Sapeurs-Pompiers de France is an unmissable event. Let’s discover its origins.

The history:

The goal is to gather together in order to ensure that the rights and interests of the firefighters are respected. The official creation of the FNSPF dates back to 17th September 1882. The organization evolved very quickly, because in 1907 the members were already 85,000.

The FNSPF

What was the goal?

The goal was to pass a finance law, more particularly a tax on fire insurance companies to be reinvested in the municipalities from 1st January 1900 and thus purchase equipment for fighting fire. But not only… Also, to organize annual conferences to give equipment and uniform manufacturers the opportunity to present their products and innovations and for firefighters to interact with national officials.

The evolution and modernization of the FNSPF

Commander Pierre COLLINET, President of the FNSPF in 1948, marked a very significant turning point for the Federation. He focused on the acquisition of motor pumps by all municipalities, the creation of a medical commission and the fight against militarization. When Colonel Sibué came to the Presidency in 1976, he brought modernity. In fact, he adopted new internal regulations, invested in communication, increased real estate assets, revamped the logo, and created a badge for young firefighters.

The FNSPF in the 90’s

It is under the Presidency of Colonel Janvier that the Federation commits to reforms. On 1st December 1990 more than 50,000 firefighters demonstrated in Paris, pressuring public authorities to obtain progress.

This is how the social welfare for volunteer firefighters and a sub-directorate of firefighters were born.

What to expect this year, are you ready?

STEM has had the pleasure of participating to this event since 2008. It is essential for us to meet our users, not only to present our projects, but also to discuss with you your needs.

This year is the 129th national congress. Today it is recognized as the second largest national event. This is the first time that the city of Toulouse hosts the event. This congress represents 500 exhibitors, 3000 delegates and several thousands of visitors. Civil security actors will have the opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops, allowing them to share their experiences and to meet different companies, which will present products and innovations. The national congress is also a moment of conviviality and solidarity. To better understand the issues, we had the pleasure of speaking with Commander RAIMOND Gilles, who is the co-chairman of the COMIPY and has the role of coordinator with the task of linking all the poles and thus ensuring a memorable event.

This year is the 129th annual meeting for the National Firefighters Congress. What is the goal of organizing this type of event?

The goal is to create links with all partners. Also with the gendarmerie, the police, the Fire Brigade Federation, insurance companies… It is also a political moment because there are many conferences planned. We also aim for this congress to be a popular celebration; we want to be close to the population.

How many people are involved in the organization of this second largest annual event?

The organization involves dozens of people, both professionals and volunteers, who have a strong involvement. Furthermore, we are three full-time people for management.

How is the city chosen to host the national congress?

The choice is made by application. We must build a solid case with the Federation. The goal is to try to avoid competition.

From the point of view of logistics, what does this mean?

We need large means of transport to bring in collector’s vehicles, we do expect around fifty of them. But also, for the stands… Moreover, to help us in this logistical part, we call on the General Commission. But it’s not just transport, you have to organize reception, meals, accommodation…

You told me about the collector’s vehicles for the exhibition, can you tell me more? What do you do to move them?

We contact associations and collectors in our region.

How many exhibitors, delegates and visitors are expected this year?

We are expecting more than 500 exhibitors, more than 3,000 conference attendees and several thousands of visitors. This year there will be two areas with easy parking. You have the area hosting the stands, the partners, the firefighters… But we will also be in the heart of the city center where some of the collector’s vehicles will be exhibited. The goal is to be with the people of Toulouse. This year we also have the pleasure of having Fabien BARTHEZ as our sponsor.

What are your expectations?

We want the exchanges to be rich and varied. Let the public come en masse to discover the world of firefighters.

In one word, how would you describe this event?

Innovative, daring and festive. Commander RAIMOND, we thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. This is the final stretch in terms of organization. See you at the conference.

Thank you for this exchange, and yes, see you at the congress…

Come visit us at our stand (4A24) to meet us and discover many new products.