Krimuldas volunteer firefighters mark 90 years of service

Krimuldas volunteer firefighters, who respond without pay whenever alarms sound, are marking 90 years of service, LSM reported. Around 20 people from different professions and generations are involved in the association, which remains an important part of the local community’s safety.

Volunteer firefighter Aivars Ginters said the association’s 1974 fire engine was 50 years older than the new vehicles used by the State Fire and Rescue Service, but still carried out its function.

The age of the vehicle is less important than having people ready to help at any time of day, Ginters said. He is an entrepreneur in daily life and dedicates his free time to the Krimulda Volunteer Firefighters Association.

Oskars Sāmīts has been a volunteer firefighter for four years. He joined the association at the age of 14 and said he planned to work for the State Fire and Rescue Service after finishing school, most likely as a vehicle driver.

Unlike professional firefighters, volunteers receive no pay for their work. They leave their jobs, beds and celebrations when needed and travel to help people in distress, said Gatis Dzērve, chairman of the Krimulda association’s board.

Although each volunteer has a different reason for joining, they are united by the belief that people must help one another and not stand aside during an emergency. Board member Edgars Mūrnieks said that if they did not act themselves, nobody else would do it in their place.

Dzērve previously worked as a rescuer and vehicle driver for the State Fire and Rescue Service. After leaving the service, he said, he missed responding to calls and wanted to continue the work alongside his main job.

“I want to be useful to society. That is probably the most important thing,” Ginters said.

The association receives calls throughout the year. In spring, they most often involve dry grass.