The deputy mayor of Madrid and delegate for Security and Emergencies, Inma Sanz, emphasised the importance of coordination among municipal services during a panel discussion on security and social cohesion at the Ibero-American Cities Meeting. The event was inaugurated by Madrid's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida.
Sanz underscored that the success of Madrid's security and emergency model relies on effective collaboration between various municipal services, including the Municipal Police, SAMUR-Protection Civil, and the Madrid Fire Brigade, as well as coordination with other administrative bodies.
During the panel, which included the mayor of Lima, Renzo Reggiardo, and the mayor of Montevideo, Mario Bergara, Sanz highlighted the role of the Security and Emergencies Coordinator and the mechanisms established by the city council to address a range of emergencies. She noted that these systems have been crucial in managing complex situations over recent years, such as the pandemic, the historic snowfall in 2021, the flood risk in 2025, and last year's national blackout.
“Having plans like the PEMAM allows us to anticipate and respond quickly and effectively to serious risks of various natures,” Sanz explained, mentioning specific plans for winter weather, extreme heat, and flooding.
The Madrid City Council is also developing new strategies to tackle various challenges. Sanz referenced the numerous major events hosted by the city, including ten concerts by Bad Bunny and twelve by Shakira, a Formula 1 Grand Prix, and a visit from Pope Leo XIV. She stated, “All have been successful, but each event requires thorough preparation, including the establishment of a coordinating centre that involves other administrations and the event organisers, with constant monitoring and specific intervention plans when necessary.”
Additionally, Sanz praised key municipal infrastructures, such as the Integrated Centre for Security and Emergencies (CISEM), where the Municipal Police, Fire Brigade, and SAMUR-PC operate their communications centre, enhancing coordination with the regional emergency number 112. The Integral Centre for Security and Emergencies Training (CIFSE) is also highlighted as a national reference for training security and emergency services. Plans are underway for a new CISEM that will incorporate the latest technologies.
Sanz further emphasised the significance of modern technology in emergency response, including the integration of artificial intelligence in surveillance systems, ultrasound devices in SAMUR-PC ambulances, drones, and electronic control devices for the Municipal Police. She concluded, “While plans and technologies are important, the main asset is the dedicated men and women of Madrid who always give their best.”
