The “Wisła-Nistru-Prut” project is a vital initiative supporting firefighter-rescuers in the Glodeni and Stefan Voda regions, located near the major rivers Prut and Dniester on Moldova’s southern and northern borders with Romania and Ukraine. Co-financed within the framework of the Polish development cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, the project addresses critical needs in water rescue operations while promoting systemic changes in disaster management and prevention.
A key component of the project is equipping local rescue units with high-quality, life-saving tools, including motorized flat-bottom boats, equipment for extracting people from pits and wells, ice sleds, and thermal imaging cameras. These advanced resources enhance the ability of rescue services to respond effectively to emergencies, safeguarding lives in regions prone to floods and other water-related disasters.
The initiative also aims to drive systemic changes by fostering collaboration between local governments and volunteer fire brigades. Through national conferences and internships in Poland, the project promotes Polish solutions that integrate volunteer fire units into the national safety system. This approach leverages the non-governmental sector and local governments, which actively fund and support volunteer fire units in close coordination with national rescue services.
In addition to providing equipment and promoting systemic change, the project prioritizes community engagement and education. Workshops with local authorities focus on securing resources for disaster preparedness and prevention, including restoring water retention to mitigate floods and reduce fire risks. Moreover, life-saving demonstrations by Polish and Moldovan experts, conducted with mannequins procured through the project, educate the public on effective rescue techniques during flooding incidents.
By fostering cross-sectoral partnerships, equipping rescue teams, and engaging communities, the “Wisła-Nistru-Prut” project strengthens the capacity of local authorities to protect residents and respond proactively to natural disasters. This initiative serves as a model for regional cooperation and sustainable safety practices, ensuring a safer future for communities along Moldova’s border rivers.
For more details, check out this video insight into the project.