by EH
On Thursday, October 10, the City of Trieste celebrated the 40th anniversary of its Civil Protection Volunteer Group, a team of 45 volunteers dedicated to emergency response and wildfire prevention. Established in 1984, the group has grown from a wildfire-focused unit to a multifaceted emergency response team, capable of addressing a wide range of crises.
At a press event held during the city’s Barcolana regatta, Councillor for Security Policies and Civil Protection, Caterina de Gavardo, praised the volunteers for their commitment. “They are an exemplary force, working for the community without compensation,” she said, highlighting that 40% of the group’s members are under the age of 35.
The volunteers have responded to numerous emergencies both in Italy and abroad, including recent floods in Emilia Romagna and international crises such as the Haiti earthquake. The group operates under the regional Civil Protection system and plays a critical role in disaster prevention, from firefighting to search and rescue missions.
Trieste recently approved a new emergency plan, designed to better prepare the city for future crises. “The unanimous approval of this plan demonstrates the city’s awareness of the importance of emergency preparedness,” de Gavardo noted.
The group is continually recruiting new volunteers, seeking individuals eager to dedicate at least 50 hours a year to community service. To become a volunteer, one must be of legal age, have a driver’s license, be up-to-date with mandatory vaccinations, be willing to work in a team, and be adaptable to any situation. Applications can be sent to: coordinatore.trieste@comuni.protezionecivile.fvg.it.
