Within the KARST ADAPT project, we organized training events for firefighters aimed at strengthening the capacities of emergency services in carrying out technical and rope-based procedures under conditions increasingly caused by climate change. The project supports the development of knowledge, tools, and operational capacities to enable a more effective response to risks such as extreme weather events, floods, and droughts, which have a significant impact on the karst area.
As early as the beginning of September, the Municipality of Miren-Kostanjevica and the Municipality of Renče-Vogrsko made it possible to provide specialized ISAR 3 training – water rescuer – for two members of the fire brigade. Through this training, they obtained an international license to carry out complex water rescue operations, in flooded areas and on vehicles trapped in water. The skills acquired are of utmost importance in conditions increasingly characterized by sudden floods and heavy rainfall, as they directly affect the safety of the population and infrastructure.
In addition, the Municipality of Renče-Vogrsko also carried out training in the field of psychosocial support and first aid.
In the same month, a two-day training course on advanced rope techniques was also conducted. The participants were divided into two groups, each of which completed its own two-day training program.
The first day took place at the Solkan quarry, where the industrial environment provided extremely realistic conditions for operating on challenging terrain. Particular emphasis was placed on rescue procedures in situations with limited access to injured persons.
The second day was dedicated to training on the Soča river, where the use of rope techniques in water rescue was further developed. Due to the increasing risks associated with floods and rapidly changing water flows, this field is becoming one of the most important competencies for firefighters. The training included the application of various techniques for accessing injured persons, rescuing from water currents with the assistance of a boat, and establishing safe working points using different rope systems.
To ensure the successful implementation of the training on the Soča river, the project also provided additional protective equipment, including appropriate footwear and dry suits for water rescue, which significantly contributed to the safe execution of the exercises; the equipment will also be used for future operations.
The KARST ADAPT project thus provided important support to the implemented training activities, which further strengthened the operational readiness of firefighters and contributed to improving the resilience of the local community in the face of events expected in the coming years as a result of climate change.
