THE TRAINING OF SLOVENIAN VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS

Abstract

Slovenian voluntary firefighting is one of the main pillars of protection and rescue. Due to its large numbers, local self-organization, tradition, values and the feeling of belonging, it will undoubtedly remain an important element in the provision of safety and assistance to the inhabitants of Slovenia. The training of volunteer firefighters is one of the most important activities of the firefighting organization, since appropriately trained firefighters represent a precondition for the effective, professional and safe performance of operational firefighting duties. In Slovenia, the firefighting system is founded on volunteers who have decided to dedicate their free time to interventions and providing assistance at fires and other disasters. Due to this voluntary core, the training process must be adapted. A volunteer firefighter can dedicate only a limited amount of their time to firefighting activities, yet at the same time, the firefighter substantially contributes to the successful completion of firefighting tasks by their professional and amateur knowledge. The system of training of volunteer firefighters falls into three groups: basic, additional and permanent training, the characteristics of which are detailed in this paper. The teaching curricula at all levels include practical knowledge on the hazards that firefighters traditionally deal with, the arrangement of the firefighting organization, and current and future challenges.