Latvia emergency services respond to 133 calls amid drownings

The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) responded to numerous emergency calls across Latvia between August 7 and August 10. Nationally, the service handled 133 calls, including 41 fire responses, 57 rescue operations, and 35 missing persons reports.

Tragically, two people drowned during the weekend: one in the Turku parish of Līvānu municipality and another in the Salas parish of Mārupe municipality. This brings the total number of drowning deaths in the country this year to 53, with 33 occurring during the current swimming season since May 15.

In the Vidzeme region specifically, VUGD received 22 calls, consisting of nine fires, 11 rescue operations, and two missing persons reports. Notable incidents included a large 220 square meter hangar fire in Jaungulbene parish, a woodchip pile fire in Cēsis, and various residential and vehicle fires. Emergency responders also managed road obstructions caused by fallen trees and traffic accidents.