On December 11, Zaporizhzhia rescuers received a shipment of charitable aid from the charitable organization “YASHCHENKO” with the support of the public organization “Dansk støtte til Ukraine” (Danish Support for Ukraine). The international partners delivered approximately one ton of fire hoses, essential for ensuring the operational efficiency and uninterrupted work of the State Emergency Service units.  

The received equipment will soon be distributed to rescuers working in frontline settlements of Zaporizhzhia region. There, every response occurs under heightened risk, and fire hoses are critically needed to extinguish fires after enemy shelling. The updated equipment will contribute to improving the efficiency, responsiveness, and safety of personnel operations.  

-We support Ukrainian rescuers because their work involves daily risks to save human lives. Our assistance is aimed at strengthening the capabilities of units in the areas where they need it most. We will continue to do everything possible to support Ukraine, said Henrik von Scholten, head of the public organization “Dansk støtte til Ukraine.”  

Heavy wear on equipment
The right equipment available during real emergency operations is crucial, says Frank Praefke, Head of Emergency Management in Lejre Municipality and representative of Danske Beredskaber in relation to the major work carried out by Dansk Støtte til Ukraine.

-We can unfortunately all too easily imagine the challenges rescue personnel face at the frontline in Ukraine. Shell-damaged buildings cause heavy wear on equipment — not least when fire hoses are dragged over rubble and reinforcing steel,” says Frank Praefke, and continues:

-As Danish firefighters, we know how important it is that the equipment works; it is essential for ensuring that the emergency services can deliver an effective response. That is why we are very pleased that the fire hoses from Danish municipal emergency services can contribute to SESU’s tremendous efforts near the frontline,” says Frank Praefke.

Zaporizhzhia rescuers express their sincere gratitude for the assistance provided, for the ongoing support, and for the solidarity shown with the units of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. 

Text and pictures by Svitlana Klymchenko, SESU Zaporizhzhia & Jakob Tilma, Danske Beredskaber