The ongoing heat is significantly impacting expanded border controls conducted by the Federal Police at Germany’s borders. Andreas Roßkopf, chair of the Police Union (GdP) for the Federal Police sector, told the “Rheinische Post” that conducting checks on hot asphalt roads is exceptionally challenging and unsustainable in the long term.
Roßkopf emphasized the increased strain on officers due to the demanding conditions. While police authorities are implementing measures such as providing refreshments, free water and relaxed dress codes, these efforts do not address the fundamental issue. He stated that a lack of investment in modern and flexible border control equipment, including adequate weather protection, has been a persistent oversight in recent years.
Roßkopf asserted that suitable equipment has been successfully tested and urged immediate procurement. He stressed the urgency of acquiring these tools to better support officers working in these challenging conditions.
