A joint effort to combat large-scale forest fires. With this spirit, on Saturday 20 September, the Euregio exercise took place in Anras, in the district of Lienz (Tyrol), where the intervention forces of Tyrol, Trentino and South Tyrol worked side by side. The initiative - organised by the Land Tyrol - was aimed at training in active forest and vegetation fire-fighting procedures, with particular focus on the synergic use of helicopters to support ground teams. The simulated scenarios were dealt with effectively, with precise coordination of the aerial means and the exchange of operational experience between the various intervention bodies. The choice of the theme was not accidental: the presence of areas affected by the bark beetle and characterised by dry timber increases the risk of large fires. Therefore, cross-border cooperation and the definition of common procedures are decisive tools for prevention and intervention. During the exercise, a helicopter of the Trento Permanent Corps' Helicopter Unit was also used to transport water for extinguishing and materials. 'Our vehicles,' explains the general manager of the Trento Civil Protection Department, Stefano Fait, 'are flown by highly qualified pilots, technicians and operators. With a flight time of about 35 minutes, we can intervene quickly even in the East Tyrol in the event of an emergency. Especially in the case of forest fires, close cooperation across borders is essential to ensure effective intervention.
Publication date: 22/09/2025
