Police give the all-clear: Cologne Arcaden safe after fire department operation!
On June 11, 2025, the Cologne Arcaden in Kalk were evacuated. The fire brigade and police confirmed a false alarm with no risk of fire.

Police give the all-clear: Cologne Arcaden safe after fire department operation!
On Wednesday evening, June 11, 2025, smoke warnings in the Cologne Arcaden in Kalk attracted the attention of visitors. Shortly after 6 p.m., the mall's fire alarm system was activated, resulting in the building being evacuated immediately. A police spokeswoman confirmed the incidents and reassured those standing around. Firefighters were quickly on the scene to get to the bottom of the cause.
While the fire brigade searched for possible dangers, the emergency services could not find any trace of fire or smoke. It is suspected that a technical defect in the fire alarm system was responsible for the alarm. The entire operation lasted until around 6:25 p.m. without the visitors breaking into panic. Many took the opportunity to finish their shopping in peace and leave the shopping center, while others lingered on the parking deck and enjoyed the fresh air. After the operation ended, the Cologne arcades quickly filled up with customers again, reports the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.
Fire brigade operations in Cologne
The events in Kalk are not alone - the fire department in Cologne has had to deal with many operations in the last few days, including one or two serious fires. On the side of DAY24 It becomes clear that fires occur again and again both in the city center and in the outskirts. Such missions are often associated with tragic stories, but fortunately many rescue operations end positively. Preventative action, such as regular maintenance of fire alarm systems, could prevent many incidents.
A look at other incidents
Another fire in Cologne that recently made headlines was the one at the waste recycling plant in Humboldt-Gremberg. This incident also highlights the challenges that the fire department faces every day. Those interested can find detailed reports on this on the website WDR.
Overall, these operations show how important it is to be well prepared and to support local security forces in their efforts to ensure the safety of Cologne's citizens. Thanks to the rapid response of the fire brigade, there was fortunately only a false alarm in the Cologne Arcaden on Tuesday.