Croatian fire services placed on high alert as heat wave intensifies

The chief fire commander, Slavko Tucaković, ordered heightened readiness for firefighters in the coastal counties as a prolonged heat wave combined with dry thunderstorms creates conditions favourable for wildfires. Additional units from Zagreb, Koprivnica‑Križevačka, Krapinsko‑zagrebačka and the City of Zagreb fire brigades have been placed on standby, each prepared to deploy 24 firefighters, a command vehicle, two water tankers, firefighting vehicles and a utility van.

Citizens are urged to avoid discarding cigarette butts, glass or lighting fires outdoors, to use barbecues only in calm weather, to keep camp trailers and boats clear of fire, and to refrain from using drones near firefighting aircraft. Anyone who spots a fire should call 193 or the European emergency number 112. The civil protection authority also runs a "Responsible Summer" campaign reminding people to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, avoid the midday sun, monitor weather warnings and follow preventive measures to reduce the risk of fires, heat‑related illnesses and other summer hazards.

The coordinated actions aim to ensure rapid response to any outbreak and to protect residents and tourists throughout Croatia’s busy summer season.