In the field, when every minute matters

RESPONSE behind the scenes: Training in conditions close to real operations

In May 2026, Montana once again became a meeting point for Bulgarian and Serbian firefighters and rescue professionals taking part in the strategic project RESPONSE. This time, however, much of the training took place outside the classroom – in field conditions designed to closely resemble real operational environments.

Over the course of two consecutive weeks, participants worked with specialised equipment, carried out practical tasks and went through a variety of scenarios requiring quick judgement, strong coordination and effective teamwork.

The programme included training on water supply and pumping systems, operations in aquatic environments, and demonstrations of modern technologies used for risk assessment and situational awareness. Particular attention was given to unmanned aerial systems, which are increasingly supporting rescue teams by providing aerial observation, monitoring evolving situations and improving operational coordination.

The highlight of the training was a practical exercise held at the Ogosta Reservoir. There, participants established water supply lines from an open water source, operated specialised pumping systems and practised different water delivery scenarios under challenging conditions.

It was in the field that participants had the opportunity to test how effectively their training translated into practice. This is where it becomes clear whether every task has been fully understood, whether equipment is being used correctly and whether teams are able to operate as a single unit.

So far, the six joint training sessions organised under project RESPONSE have involved a total of 120 representatives of the General Directorate Fire Safety and Civil Protection of Bulgaria and the Sector for Emergency Management of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia.

But perhaps the most important result of these meetings cannot be measured by the number of participants or training sessions delivered.

It is built gradually through joint work, mutual trust and professional synchronisation between teams on both sides of the border.

Because in a real emergency, equipment matters. But the ability of people to work together is what truly makes the difference.