Dominican Republic emergency services face operational crisis and leadership transitions

In the Dominican Republic, investigations have revealed a severe operational crisis within the Santo Domingo Este (SDE) Fire Department. Reports indicate that the municipal management has left the department in a state of abandonment, characterized by closed stations, inoperable heavy water tankers, and a lack of essential breathing equipment. Of the 15 extinction units previously available, only seven remain functional, and response times have reportedly tripled international standards.

Separately, the Dominican Civil Defense is marking the conclusion of Juan Salas’s five-year tenure as executive director and president of the National Emergency Commission (CNE). During the 2021-2026 period, Salas oversaw the modernization of the National Prevention, Mitigation, and Response System (SNPMR). Key achievements included the incorporation of new 4x4 vehicle fleets, improved infrastructure, and the construction of a National Humanitarian Supplies Warehouse with support from the World Food Programme and the European Union. His administration also focused on territorializing risk management and improving health and life insurance for thousands of volunteers.