Montenegro has established a comprehensive fire management system involving various stakeholders, including government authorities, administrative bodies, private entities, and specialized units. This system aims to prevent, mitigate, and respond to various types of emergencies, including forest fires, with a focus on coordination, preparedness, and environmental protection.
State authorities and administrative bodies are equipped and trained for fire protection and rescue, according to the Law on Protection and Rescue.
Private companies, legal entities, and entrepreneurs may also participate in fire protection and rescue efforts. Operational units engaged in fire protection and rescue include municipal services, civil protection units, voluntary rescue units, units of private companies and legal entities, air firefighting units, and specialized units.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs, specifically the Directorate for Protection and Rescue, plays a central role in managing risks, protection, and rescue operations during emergencies. This directorate is divided into seven sectors and seven regional units, covering a wide range of protection and rescue activities, from prevention to response and recovery.
The forestry sector is also involved in fire protection, particularly in the preparation and implementation of protection and rescue plans. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management oversees the forestry sector, with specialized units responsible for various aspects of forest management, including forest protection.
Additionally, there are five national parks in Montenegro: Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, Lovćen, Skadar Lake, and Prokletije. These national parks encompass unique natural environments and landscapes, which require protection and management strategies, including fire prevention and response plans.
The protection of forests in national parks and other areas is crucial, with forests covering a significant portion of the country’s territory. The Institute of Hydrometeorology and Seismology is responsible for monitoring and providing information related to meteorology, climate, hydrology, and seismology.