The regional Secretary for Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, announced in a statement from the regional government that electric vehicle inhibitors are being distributed to the 17 fire departments of the Azores. This initiative follows the adaptation of training content for firefighters on this matter.
During the distribution of electric vehicle inhibitors on Tuesday at the Volunteer Firefighters Humanitarian Association in Vila do Porto, Santa Maria, Miguel noted the increasing number of electric vehicles in the region. He emphasized the importance of properly equipping and preparing firefighters to face new challenges.
The Secretary, responsible for Civil Protection in the Azores, explained that this effort involves an investment of approximately 20,000 euros, supplemented by specific technical training. This training ensures that all firefighters are prepared to conduct rescue operations and extrications involving electric and hybrid vehicles.
“These essential pieces of equipment allow for the deactivation of a vehicle’s electrical system in emergencies, thereby enhancing safety for firefighters, victims, and all individuals present at the intervention sites,” Miguel highlighted in a statement from the Azorean government (PSD/CDS-PP/PPM).
Miguel also recalled that, over the past two years, the Regional Government has allocated over half a million euros for acquiring individual protection equipment for firefighters. Additionally, around 4.3 million euros have been designated for purchasing nine heavy red vehicles and nine rescue ambulances.
The event also featured Rui Andrade, president of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Firefighters Service, who emphasized that “the safety of firefighters is a priority.”
