The Government of Poland and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Albania have taken a significant stride towards bolstering disaster response capacity by  providing three Urban Search and Rescue Containers (USAR) to the Firefighting Services in the municipalities of Durrës, Lezhë, and Fier.

In a ceremony  Ambassador of Poland to Albania, Monika Zuchniak-Pazdan, and UNDP Resident Representative, Monica Merino, delivered the state-of-the-art containers to the three municipalities. During the event, they engaged with local government representatives and firefighters, emphasizing the containers' critical importance.

Each Urban Search and Rescue Container is fully equipped with the necessary tools and gear required by firefighter teams during rescue operations in both natural and man-made disasters. These containers adhere to international standards in terms of dimensions, internal organization, and the quality of equipment, thereby enhancing firefighters' capabilities and response time during emergencies. Their presence is pivotal in saving lives during catastrophic events.

The provided equipment is versatile, serving firefighters in a range of daily rescue operations, including car accidents, forest fires, and the mobilization of damaged building structures.

To ensure seamless utilization and proper maintenance of these containers and tools, the UNDP conducted comprehensive training sessions for all firefighters in each municipality. Additional training sessions will be extended to the firefighting staff of other municipalities, further strengthening disaster response capacities.

This training program organized in partnership with the  General Directorate of Firefighting, covers critical areas such as Urban Search and Rescue and First Aid in Fire and Rescue Operations.

The Government of Poland has  funded this project, which was initiated after the devastating earthquake that struck Albania in November 2019. This partnership exemplifies another building block in strengthening Albania's resilience against future disasters.

Reinforcing firefighting and rescue services is pivotal in augmenting the overall response capacity of both local and national institutions when facing disasters. This initiative is part of the broader project titled "Strengthening the Capacities of the Albanian Fire and Rescue Service," aimed at enhancing firefighters' ability to respond effectively to both natural and man-made calamities. The project, funded by the Government of Poland and implemented by UNDP, seeks to fortify Albania's disaster preparedness.

This handover marks one of several activities designed to support municipal firefighting services, further demonstrating the commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the Albanian people.