This system is supported above all by volunteers: around 95,000 people volunteer in the Upper Austrian fire services alone and ensure that help is available around the clock. Without this voluntary commitment, it would not be possible to maintain comprehensive protection in the communities.
Education and ongoing training: the foundation for operational quality
Comprehensive training is essential to ensure that these diverse and often dangerous tasks can be mastered. From basic courses to respiratory protection and radio training courses through to specialised technical training, members receive training that is constantly being expanded and deepened. Equally important is regular training in exercises, performance tests and realistic operational simulations. Only through continuous training can the emergency services remain capable, safe and coordinated. Because in an emergency, teamwork, routine and a precise approach are the key to success and safety.
Volunteering as a supporting pillar
Volunteer work is at the heart of the fire services in Upper Austria. Volunteers put their free time, their knowledge and their physical and mental strength at the service of the community. Last year, an impressive 7.7 million hours of voluntary work were performed in Upper Austria. This figure illustrates the massive contribution made by volunteer firefighters.
Example of exemplary commitment: award for young firefighter
Tobias Meditz, a member of the Hagenberg volunteer fire brigade, was honoured with an award that shows just how valuable this commitment can be. During a visit to his grandparents' farm, he recognised an incipient fire in the wood chip store. Thanks to his quick action, the immediate alert via the fire brigade emergency call and his prudent intervention, greater damage was prevented.
He was honoured by the provincial fire brigade association for this courageous and exemplary action and was also given the opportunity to experience the daily routine of a professional fire brigade for a day. His example shows how important awareness, courage and good training are at a young age and how much the community benefits from committed people who take responsibility at the crucial moment. And we find such examples #schongenial.
