The ongoing heat is significantly impacting expanded border controls conducted by the Federal Police at Germany’s borders. Andreas Roßkopf, chairman of the Police Union (GdP) for the Federal Police sector, told the “Rheinische Post” that conducting checks on hot asphalt roadways 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 uniform requirements, these efforts do not address the fundamental issue. He stated that a lack of investment in flexible and modern 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 must now be procured urgently to improve working conditions for border control personnel.