The Mértola Volunteer Fire Department officially received two new vehicles yesterday, an ambulance for transporting non-emergency patients (VDTD) and a tactical command vehicle (VCOT).
The two vehicles represented an investment worth 66 thousand euros, 18 thousand of which came from the coffers of the Humanitarian Association and the rest 48 thousand euros under the responsibility of the Mértola City Council.
Jorge Santos, commander of the BVM, explained that “The transport of non-urgent patients is one of the most requested services from the corporation” adding that the new command vehicle ” fills a gap in emergency scenarios” concluded.
Mario Thomas, President of the local authority, justified that firefighters are better equipped and convey a greater feeling of safety to the population”, finished
On the sidelines of the vehicle delivery ceremony and during the ceremony to promote an operative to the command team, Jorge Santos, commander of the BVM announced the award of a Collective Commendation to the corporation, in total 44 operational, which includes the 2nd commander, the command deputy, a chief and remaining active staff that includes 1st firefighters, 23rd and 3rd and the interns, noting that “what covid gave us was depriving us of our freedom and conditioning our activity, but it did not take away our desire and ability to work on behalf of the populations”, concluded.
The president of the board, Maria do Céu Alhinho, stated that “we have done everything to ensure the safety of our firefighters and do not spare any expense to defend them”, leaving, however, a strong message regarding the Hunting Fair “when collaboration was requested, some did not respond. It hurt”, said.
“We award bonuses and this year we do the same again, but in 2022 we will change the way we assign them so that each professional’s commitment is as objective as possible”, finished.
The Mayor of Mértola and responsible for Municipal Civil Protection, reiterated the unconditional support of the municipality, remembering that the corporation went through difficult times, some in command, others in the direction. Mário Tomé was satisfied with the corporation's current situation: “Firefighters live with peace of mind and institutional robustness. Feeling serenity and tranquility is important for the municipality”, justified.
Teixeira Correia
(journalist)
