German fire services operate three levels of incident command units. The ELW 1 responds with the first full first alarm units to structure fires, rescues and accidents and hazmat incidents. This usually includes two pumpers, a TL (or a rescue or hazmat tender) and the ELW 2 with a total of 16 crew members - as well as often an ambulance too. The more comprehensive ELW2 brings a more senior officer and aide to second alarm or other complex situations, while the ELW 3 usually only responds to major incidents. This is very well equipped and often on a bus chassis, including - in the case of Karlsruhe - even a double decker!
Added by Rob Johnson on 09 February 2026.