From training to real action: strengthening wildfire preparedness in Split-Dalmatia County
24/03/2026
On 18 March 2026, the HANDY project continued its capacity-building journey with a full day of training, knowledge exchange, simulations and field testing in Split-Dalmatia County.
The activity brought together project partners, civil protection operational forces and firefighters to strengthen preparedness and response capacities in relation to wildfire risks, which are becoming increasingly relevant for many territories across the Adriatic area.
The day began at the Firefighting Center for Education and Technological Development in Vučevica, where participants took part in dedicated training sessions focused on wildfire preparedness, operational coordination and emergency response. Representatives from Split-Dalmatia County, Civil Protection Agency of Abruzzo Region, Dubrovnik-Neretva County and Municipality of Aquileia joined the activity, with the support of the associated partner Civil Protection of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Autonomous Region.
The training sessions offered an important opportunity to share experiences, compare operational approaches and deepen technical knowledge on how to manage increasingly complex wildfire scenarios. The exchange among Italian and Croatian partners also contributed to reinforcing a common understanding of risks and response procedures in cross-border contexts.
A key part of the programme was the tabletop exercise, which involved participants in a realistic forest fire scenario. The simulation allowed civil protection forces and firefighters to test coordination mechanisms, decision-making processes and cooperation under pressure. This practical approach helped participants move from planning to action, identifying both strengths and possible areas for improvement in emergency management.
The highlight of the day was the live demonstration exercise, during which forest fire equipment purchased through the HANDY project was tested in real operational conditions. Organised by the Split-Dalmatia County Firefighting Association and the Croatian Firefighting Association, the field exercise allowed teams to assess the performance, usability and effectiveness of the equipment directly on the ground.
By combining training, simulation and practical testing, the activity represented an important step in improving the readiness of local teams and supporting the effective use of specialised equipment in emergency situations. It also strengthened cooperation between civil protection structures, firefighters and project partners, creating a valuable space for joint learning and operational exchange.
The activity in Split-Dalmatia County confirms the HANDY project’s commitment to building safer and more resilient territories across borders. Through practical cooperation and shared capacity building, the project continues to support communities in facing climate-related risks and improving their ability to respond to emergencies together.
