Croatia Conducts Interdepartmental Fire Drill in Učka Tunnel

Croatia has successfully executed an interdepartmental fire drill within the Učka tunnel, demonstrating its preparedness for potential emergencies. The exercise, named "Sigurnost 26," involved more than 100 firefighters from public and volunteer units across Istria and Primorje-Gorski Kotar counties, alongside emergency medical services and other responders.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković lauded the participants, stating they exhibited a high level of synergy and capability. "Your readiness, training, and commitment show that what we are prepared to do in such a short time and circumstances represents a world standard," Plenković remarked after the drill. He emphasized that the exercise marked the practical start of the fire season and noted the operational readiness of command centers from June 15.

The drill simulated a collision between two vehicles inside the tunnel, leading to a fire that was extinguished by firefighters. Approximately ten injured individuals were attended to by emergency medical personnel. A secondary simulated forest fire, resulting from the vehicle collision, was also addressed. Firefighters utilized around ten vehicles, supported by two air tractors and two Canadair aircraft. A Croatian Army helicopter deployed two specially trained firefighters directly to the simulated fire scene.

Several government ministers, including Deputy Prime Ministers Davor Božinović and Tomo Medved, as well as the Ministers of Health, Tourism and Sports, and Labor, Family, and Social Policy, were present. The drill was also observed by the Chief Fire Officer, the President of the Croatian Firefighting Association's presidency, and other dignitaries, underscoring the national importance placed on safety and emergency response.

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Vaša spremnost, obučenost i zalaganje pokazuju da ono što smo spremni učiniti u ovako kratkom roku i okolnostima predstavlja svjetski standard