Państwowa Straż Pożarna w zwalczaniu zagrożeń o charakterze epidemiologicznym na przykładzie województwa małopolskiego

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present the role and tasks of the State Fire Service in Poland, with particular emphasis on contemporary epidemiological threats, which is the Covid‑19 pandemic. The study is to develop the formulated research problem regarding the role of the State Fire Service on the example of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship in combating epidemiological threats and to indicate the form and degree of involvement of firefighters in the activities carried out at that time aimed at limiting the spread of the above‑mentioned diseases pandemic. To better illustrate the subject of the research, the activities of selected rescue and firefighting units located in the Małopolskie Voivodeship were used. The research was largely based on an analysis of the literature on the subject, annually published information bulletins, current articles appearing in the local press, as well as mentions published on government websites and on the websites of the State Fire Service. The conclusions from the research indicate the high commitment of firefighters, who were entrusted with a wide range of tasks during a pandemic. The data also show that, despite the occurrence of epidemiological threats atypical for our region, these units were highly effective in combating them and willingly supported and helped other people and institutions.