The Fire and Rescue Service in Gjirokastër has begun implementing preventive and rapid response measures for potential summer wildfires. Firefighting specialists are holding awareness meetings with local authorities, livestock farmers, and the community.
These meetings aim to promote the prevention and early detection of wildfires in forests and pastures and to avoid a repeat of last year’s severe fire situations, reports Euronews.al.
“Last year we had a serious issue in the administrative unit of Cepo, as well as in other areas where fires were widespread. In addition to the firefighting units, we had to engage volunteer forces and the military to help. That’s why we have started meetings in all administrative units to raise awareness among citizens, especially livestock farmers, who are a concern for us because most pasture fires are deliberately set by them,” said Gramoz Llapi, head of the fire service.
Through the implementation of additional measures, the goal is to prevent dangerous situations like those of last summer, when wildfires threatened villages and the lives of residents in the Gjirokastër region.
“We have created an action plan that includes part of the Fire Service hiring temporary contracts. These personnel will be deployed in the field, act as lookouts, and participate in extinguishing fires. They will be trained by us. We also have a volunteer fire service,” Llapi added.
In collaboration with law enforcement, there will be zero tolerance for intentional wildfires in forests and pastures. Perpetrators will face strict legal penalties.
“We have an excellent cooperation with the State Police, and we made it clear today to livestock farmers and village leaders that in the event of a fire, we have a signed agreement with the State Police to support us in handling any criminal offense related to intentional arson,” he stated.
The Fire Service will remain on high alert throughout the summer season to prevent dangerous situations that threaten the lives and property of citizens.
