Volunteers Search Fire-Ravaged Croatian Coast for Surviving Animals Amidst Dangerous Conditions

Volunteers are braving dangerous conditions near Omiš, Croatia, to search for animals affected by recent fires. The scale of the devastation is immense, with many animals lost and the landscape still smoldering. Olga Burić, a volunteer, described the scene as "difficult to describe," noting that "walking is impossible on the burning ground because shoes literally catch fire."

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It is difficult to describe. We helped people and animals and are still helping. Unfortunately, a lot has burned, both structures and animals. You can't walk on the burning ground because your shoes literally catch fire.

Teams are working to rescue and treat injured animals, providing food, water, and shelter. They are also leaving supplies in safe locations for both domestic and wild animals. The fires have destroyed homes and left residents without power and water, creating a desperate situation for both people and their pets.

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We have at least five or six situations where a person simply has nothing else to do but sit down and cry when they see the state we found.

The Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS) has issued a stern warning to the public, urging them to avoid the burnt area. They emphasize the risks posed by unstable, burnt trees that could fall, as well as the dangers of rockfalls and collapsing ground. "We respect the initiative and desire of people to help, but one must be careful not to endanger their own lives," the HGSS stated.

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The ground is still burning. Literally, after twenty seconds of standing in a certain place, my feet started to burn through my sneakers.

A group called Welo Team has adapted its "Kad zatreba" (When Needed) website to coordinate aid for those affected by the fires, including a section for animal assistance. They are cautioning the public to be vigilant about online donations, urging verification of recipients and the credibility of aid requests.

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We respect the initiative and desire of people to help, but one must be careful not to endanger their own lives.