Two firefighters from the “Specialized Operational Activities – Montana” sector were injured on Tuesday while battling a massive fire near the town of Varshets, Bulgaria.
The accident occurred around noon when the fire truck they were operating overturned during the intense firefighting operations.
The incident has cast a spotlight on the risks faced by those on the front lines of fire suppression, especially under challenging conditions.
One firefighter was admitted to a hospital in Vratsa, suffering from three broken ribs, while the other sustained a deep cut to his hand and experienced difficulty breathing.
After initial treatment at Montana Hospital, the firefighter with the hand injury was discharged for home care, whereas his colleague with rib injuries was transferred to the Multidisciplinary Hospital for active treatment in Vratsa for further medical attention.
The accident prompted an immediate response from an on-duty investigator from the District Investigation Department of the Montana District Prosecutor’s Office.
A thorough inspection of the accident site was conducted, leading to the initiation of an investigative case to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The fire, which broke out in the “Iztok” district of Varshets, has since been brought under control. However, the blaze consumed approximately 300 decares of dry grass and bushes before it was contained.
A firefighting team remains on duty in the area to monitor any potential flare-ups, ensuring that the fire does not reignite.
The rapid response and collaboration among different sectors played a crucial role in managing the situation. In the wake of the incident, the mayor of Varshets, Eng.
Ivan Lazarov, publicly thanked the firefighters, forest officials, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in combating the fire.
“Their dedication and bravery have been instrumental in preventing a more extensive disaster,” said Lazarov.
Mayor Lazarov also issued a plea to the community, urging citizens to exercise caution and refrain from lighting fires in open areas, to prevent further incidents during the dry season.
“We must all be vigilant and responsible to protect our environment and community,” he emphasized.
This incident has highlighted the importance of safety measures and preparedness in firefighting operations.
The overturned fire truck incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of such emergencies and the need for robust support and safety protocols for firefighters.
As the community of Varshets begins to recover from this harrowing experience, the focus remains on supporting the injured firefighters and ensuring that all safety measures are in place to prevent future accidents.
The swift response from the authorities and the community’s cooperation were crucial in bringing the fire under control and minimizing damage.
The investigation into the cause of the fire truck overturning is ongoing, with the aim of identifying any procedural lapses or mechanical failures that may have contributed to the accident.
The findings of this investigation will be critical in enhancing the safety and efficiency of firefighting operations in the region.
The bravery and resilience of the firefighters involved in this incident have been widely acknowledged, and their commitment to protecting the community continues to inspire gratitude and respect.
As they recover, the community’s thoughts and well-wishes are with them, hoping for a swift and full recovery.