Flood Training Equips Cadets for a Climate-Resilient Future

Flood training is becoming increasingly vital as communities around the world face the growing threat of extreme flooding events. 

In Denmark, a new generation is stepping up to the challenge. 

Fifteen dedicated cadets recently completed the UngKlima flood training program, an intensive course focused on climate resilience, collaboration and hands-on emergency preparedness.

Held over two weekends in Tønder, this training initiative brought together young members of the Emergency Preparedness (UIB) program from across the country. 

With a dynamic mix of theoretical instruction and practical exercises, the training equipped participants with essential knowledge and real-world skills for managing flood situations and related emergencies.

A Practical Approach to Flood Training

Unlike traditional classroom-based learning, the UngKlima flood training program placed a strong emphasis on physical engagement and problem-solving. 

From day one, cadets were immersed in activities that simulated real-life climate challenges, ranging from storm surges and heavy rainfall to flash floods and dam breaches.

In the first weekend, the focus was on understanding dike systems and how to respond to a potential breach. 

The group visited Højer Dige to observe existing infrastructure and evaluate flood risks. 

Back at the station in Tønder, cadets built models of dike breaches and strategized appropriate emergency responses. 

These exercises encouraged critical thinking and helped cadets visualize the cascading effects of flood events.

Mastering Flood Defense Techniques

During the second weekend, the training moved into full gear with hands-on flood mitigation work. 

Cadets learned how to prevent water intrusion into buildings such as summer homes, using both traditional and modern methods.

From building stable sandbag walls to deploying watertubes (flood barriers), the participants experienced a full spectrum of solutions. 

Special emphasis was placed on using professional equipment such as our NoFloods WaterTubes, EasyWall and FlexGuard.

Participants also practised how to:

• Build effective barriers using sandbags
• Identify weak points in building structures
• Use pumps to manage excess water
• Support structures at risk of collapse
• Communicate and coordinate in emergency situations

Here are some remarks from some of the participants:

The most important thing for me was learning how to use sandbags to stop water. It takes time, but it works.

I’ve learned that communication is key—it all becomes easier when we simply talk and help each other out.

Training with the FlexGuard, EasyWall and NoFloods Barriers

A highlight of this year’s flood training was the opportunity to work with new and advanced equipment provided by Environment Solutions i.e. FlexGuard, EasyWall and NoFloods Barriers. 

These barrier systems are among the most efficient in the world, used across Europe for municipal and industrial flood protection.

Cadets practiced deploying the barriers in simulated flood scenarios. 

They learned the importance of proper placement, quick assembly and barrier stabilization. 

These exercises not only enhanced their understanding of modern flood defenses but also highlighted the critical role such equipment plays in real emergencies.

As one cadet put it:

It was great to be able to train with the right watertubes and watergates

You can check out the pictures below to see them in action.

As you can see here, we’ve previously provided UIB with some of our leading flood prevention solutions, including the NoFloods Barriers and FlexGuard, which cadets have put to use in their practical training.

Celebrating Teamwork and Commitment

The flood training was not only about learning techniques, it was also a celebration of teamwork and commitment. 

Whether deploying barriers or working side by side in high-energy drills, the cadets demonstrated exceptional motivation and maturity.

The training culminated in a diploma ceremony recognizing the effort and progress of all participants. 

Instructors praised the group as one of the most enthusiastic and capable they had ever worked with.

“It has been one of the best teams we have had. The young people have been really motivated and committed” said Dan from Tønder Youth Fire Department, who was responsible for the practical implementation of the course.

A Community-Driven Initiative

None of this would have been possible without the collaboration of dedicated volunteers and partners. 

Local emergency services, instructors and organizations like Environment Solutions worked closely with UIB to bring the program to life.

The young cadets were quick to express their gratitude:

The volunteers were really nice to us and they helped if we needed help

Very cool with so many people from the outside! UIB is nothing without you fantastic volunteers

Listen up, you’ve all been cool! We love everything you do and that you spend so much time on it

About Unge i Beredskabet (UIB)

Unge i Beredskabet (UIB) is a Danish organization that unites children and young people with an interest in fire and rescue. 

Through training, events and a strong social community, it equips participants with practical skills, life experience and a foundation for future education and work.

The UngKlima program is a key initiative that prepares young cadets to respond to climate-related emergencies by combining technical knowledge with hands-on training.

UIB is supported by the Danish Emergency Services and the Ministry of Defense.

You can learn more about it here.

Flood Training Builds the Foundation for Future Resilience

In a time when climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of floods, investing in flood training for young people is more critical than ever. 

Programs like UngKlima offer a blueprint for how to engage, educate and empower the next generation.

The cadets who took part in this year’s program walked away with more than just diplomas, they gained confidence, practical skills and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Their experience underscores the vital role flood training plays in building safer communities.

At Environment Solutions, we are proud to support such initiatives and look forward to contributing to many more in the future.

Get in touch to see how our solutions can support your needs