How Croatia can better protect settlements after Omiš fire disaster

Omiš

The wildfire that swept through the Omiš area has been brought under control and the situation was calm on Saturday morning, according to Tomislav Gojo, director of the Split branch of the Croatian Red Cross.

The fire, described as one of the most serious in Croatia’s history, claimed one life, while four people suffered serious injuries and several dozen others sustained minor injuries. Homes, olive groves and vehicles were destroyed or damaged in the blaze.

Speaking on HRT show Studio 4, Gojo said the situation had improved and that tourists were able to return to their accommodation. The Red Cross, however, continues to receive individual requests for assistance, including transport, information, replacement documents and help contacting relatives or others.

He said the psychological impact of the fire would continue to be felt, with many people who experienced the evacuation facing significant trauma. Split Red Cross staff, volunteers and local residents have been involved in providing assistance.

Meanwhile, Dino Kozlevac, chief fire commander of Istria County and deputy president of the Croatian Firefighting Association, said greater attention must be given to wildfire prevention and the protection of settlements.

He warned that panic can create additional risks during rapidly spreading fires. Residents should follow instructions from emergency services, leave buildings when ordered and take only essential personal belongings and documents.

Kozlevac specifically advised people not to drive along roads affected by fire unless evacuation by vehicle has been organised by authorities. Cars can block roads, prevent emergency vehicles from passing and potentially leave people trapped.

Almost 2,000 people were evacuated from areas affected by the Omiš fire, with the evacuation largely organised by emergency services.

Looking beyond the immediate response, Kozlevac called for neglected woodland and private plots to be cleared and for firebreaks to be created around homes and settlements. He also raised concerns about buildings surrounded by pine forests and trees growing immediately next to houses.

“It’s nice to see a pine tree leaning against a house, but it turns it into a potentially endangered object because the fire spreads from the greenery to the structure. There must be a professionally planned zone around houses and settlements without large vegetation,” he said.

He said authorities should consider changes to regulations allowing neglected private land to be cleared where it poses a fire risk, with costs subsequently charged to property owners.

“No one has the right to endanger others through their inaction. The spread of fires is generally associated with uncleaned forest areas,” he said.

Kozlevac also suggested greater use of mixed forest planting, additional forest roads and clearings, and increased investment in prevention.

He noted that Croatia had made significant progress in firefighting organisation, equipment and technology in recent years, while aerial firefighting remains an important part of the response to major fires.

He stressed that early reporting remains critical, urging people to immediately report smoke or flames and, during a fire, prioritise their own safety without obstructing firefighters.