ORGANIZATION AND OPERATION OF VOLUNTARY FIREFIGHTING ORGANIZATIONS IN SLOVENIA

Abstract

Organized voluntary firefighting in Slovenia has a 150-year-long tradition. Today, voluntary firefighting organizations in Slovenia are the most numerous and powerful part of the response system. The high operational capability and high-level equipment of firefighting units ensure 24-hour preparedness for action in the event of natural and other disasters across Slovenia. The voluntary firefighting system in Slovenia is very well developed, and sets an example of good practice to several countries around Europe and the world. The effectiveness of the system is especially evident in the event of major natural disasters, where voluntary firefighters are indispensable. From its very beginnings, firefighting was not only a service organized for emergencies, and the rescue of people and their property, but was also significant from the social and cultural point of view. Since ancient times, people have connected through firefighting organizations, where national identity and cultural unity have been fostered.