State Fire and Rescue Service Calls for Volunteers in Cross-Border Evacuation Exercise

The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) is calling on residents to sign up as volunteer participants in a cross-border mass evacuation exercise between Latvia and Lithuania, which will take place on August 4. The exercise is organized under the "MassMovement" project, implemented by VUGD in cooperation with the Lithuanian Fire and Rescue Service. The project aims to strengthen both countries' readiness to organize and implement mass evacuation of residents in emergency situations.

The practical exercise will simulate the evacuation of residents from Latvia to Lithuania along the route Daugavpils–Jēkabpils–Pasvalys. Departure is scheduled for August 4 at 9:00 AM. In the first two stages, participants will travel approximately 255 kilometers, taking about three hours and 38 minutes, while the return trip will be 174 kilometers, lasting approximately two hours and 20 minutes.

During the exercise, as realistically as possible, the entire evacuation process will be rehearsed – including gathering residents, organizing transport, registration, cross-border movement, reception at the destination, catering, and other civil protection measures.

VUGD emphasizes that volunteer participation is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of evacuation procedures, identifying potential improvements, enhancing cooperation between Latvian and Lithuanian institutions, and strengthening public preparedness for emergency situations.

Participants will be provided with meals (dry food rations), practical souvenirs, and the opportunity to take part in a specially prepared entertainment event in Pasvalys (Lithuania). Participation is free of charge, but the number of spots is limited, so interested individuals are encouraged to apply early by filling out an application form.