The trade union organizations FNS CISL LECCE and UIL PA – Fire fighters they reported the situation to the Prefect of Lecce, highlighting how the lack of prevention is the main factor behind the increase in forest fires. Prevention should be the pillar of the firefighting campaign, but the neglect of public and private lands, often invaded by shrubs and brushwood, contributes to the proliferation of fires.
In the letter sent to the Prefect, the unions underlined that the situation cannot be defined as a true current emergency, as it recurs every year with the same severity. The lack of preventive interventions and the delay in signing the regional forest fire-fighting agreement aggravate the problem, leaving the firefighters to manage fires that could be avoided with correct maintenance of the territory.
The letter also highlights the operational difficulties of the firefighters due to the lack of personnel and the obsolescence of the fleet. The tank pump cars (APS) are old and need replacement, while smaller and more agile vehicles such as country vans and pick-ups equipped with forest firefighting modules are missing. This situation forces firefighters to work exhausting shifts, with an increased risk for citizens who may not receive timely help.
The union document urges a decisive intervention by the institutions to tackle the problem at its rootAnd. The creation of protective strips along the perimeters of lands invaded by scrub and rigorous control by the authorities are essential measures to prevent fires. Furthermore, it is urgent to renew the fire brigade fleet and increase staffing to ensure an efficient and safe service.
The letter concludes with an appeal to the Prefect for a meeting aimed at discussing the problems exposed and finding concrete solutions. Prevention and adaptation of resources are fundamental to prevent the fire emergency from becoming a chronic and unsolvable problem.
