Croatian fire brigade in Chile celebrates 124 years, seeks new volunteers

(Photo:Facebook/Cuarta Compañía Bomba Croata)

ZAGREB, 11 Jan (Hina) – A volunteer fire brigade founded by Croatian immigrants in the Chilean city of Punta Arenas 124 years ago has marked its anniversary by opening its doors to the public in a bid to attract new recruits.

Bomba Croata, one of 11 fire brigades in the seaport of 145,000 people, specialises in high-angle and confined-space rescues rather than firefighting with water, and is recognised by vehicles and uniforms bearing the Croatian coat of arms.

(Photo:Facebook/Cuarta Compañía Bomba Croata)

“People come to see the station, trucks and museum and learn how we work,” director Jonathan Garay told local radio station Radio Polar.

Founded in 1902 by poor emigrants from Dalmatia who had settled in what was then a major Atlantic–Pacific trade hub, the brigade operates from the Barrio Croata district where the community first took root.

(Photo:Facebook/Cuarta Compañía Bomba Croata)

Today, its 58 volunteers work in demanding conditions marked by strong Antarctic winds and high-rise buildings, carrying out rescues involving people, children, pets and animals.

The unit includes medical staff and a psychologist, and has a team trained in animal rescue.

(Photo:Facebook/Cuarta Compañía Bomba Croata)

Despite its strong local identity, Punta Arenas mayor Claudio Radonich is also of Croatian descent, the brigade says attracting young volunteers remains a challenge.

Interested applicants must submit a motivation letter, undergo interviews and training, and complete a year of field assistance.

“We operate 365 days a year, 24 hours a day,” Garay said.