The Civil Protection Department has received a boost with the addition of ten new fire-fighting vehicles specifically designed to tackle grass fires in rural areas.

This €1 million investment equips the department with compact, manoeuvrable vehicles capable of navigating narrow country roads and paths, allowing for quicker response times during summer droughts.

On average, the department responds to 1,600 rural fire incidents annually.

The vehicles were officially launched during a ceremony attended by Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, who emphasised the department’s transformation from one reliant on second-hand gear to a professional force with modern equipment and well-trained personnel.

The Minister explained that the vehicles are part of a broader investment in tools suited to Malta’s landscape: rural terrain, village alleys, historic centres, high-rise buildings, and industrial zones.

New fire suits have also been introduced, which are 35% lighter to better suit Malta’s climate, along with immersion suits for flood response.

Minister Camilleri highlighted that the government has invested heavily in staff training and working conditions. Talks are under way on a new sectoral agreement recognising the department as a disciplined force.

Director General Peter Paul Coleiro urged public caution, noting that most rural fires are caused by human negligence, such as littered cigarettes, barbecues, or vehicle misuse.

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Photos: DOI – Alan Saliba