Koen Maertens
Recent tragedies across Europe have shown how quickly fire disasters can escalate, often driven by recurring and avoidable risk factors such as indoor pyrotechnics, inadequate safety measures, and regulatory gaps. These events continue to claim lives—often young—and leave many more with devastating injuries.
This session shifts the focus from response to prevention. Drawing on lessons learned from past incidents, we will explore how policy, legislation, and public health interventions can reduce the risk of burn disasters.
From banning indoor use of fireworks and pyrotechnics to strengthening fire safety standards and promoting safer alternatives, speakers will highlight concrete actions that can make a difference.
Can we act before the next disaster happens?
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Plenary session 4: Beyond Survival: Aftercare in Burn Mass Casualties
Date: 16 May 2026Time: 13:00 - 13:59Survival after a burn mass casualty incident is only the beginning of a long and complex journey. Patients often require prolonged rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and... - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Is it possible to prevent burn mass casualties? From lessons learned to prevention and policy
Date: 16 May 2026Time: 16:02 - 16:29