Croatia Prepares for a Challenging Season, Prioritizing Forest Fire Prevention

As Croatia braces for the upcoming season, the focus is firmly on bolstering defenses against forest fires, a persistent threat to our natural beauty and infrastructure. The Ministry of the Interior, through the Croatian Firefighting Association, is undertaking significant preparatory work. This includes crucial maintenance of forest areas, firebreaks, and access roads, exemplified by the extensive clearing operations in Krka National Park. The upcoming "Safety 26" exercise, set to take place in Karlovac County and near the Ucka tunnel, will be a vital test of our coordinated response capabilities, involving multiple emergency services and air support. Furthermore, a substantial national investment is underway to equip our brave firefighters. Over 30 million euros are being allocated to procure specialized equipment for forest fire suppression, benefiting over 10,000 firefighters. The domestic production of 78 specialized firefighting vehicles is also planned. In Split-Dalmatia County alone, approximately 1,700 firefighters will be on standby. Recognizing the escalating risks, Croatia will implement a general ban on outdoor fires starting June 1st, with the possibility of earlier restrictions should conditions warrant. This proactive approach, including early warnings and fire bans in regions like Sibenik-Knin County, underscores our commitment to safeguarding our nation's precious natural resources and ensuring public safety during the critical summer months.