The Regional Secretary for Health defended in Santa Cruz da Graciosa that citizens are the basis of a solid and effective Civil Protection, which justifies the Regional Government's strong commitment to awareness for risks and catastrophes.
 
"Civil protection begins in each Azorean and must be regarded as an act of citizenship and shared responsibility," said Rui Luís, who spoke on the sidelines of the activities that marked World Civil Defence Day.
 
The initiative aims to raise awareness for the importance of Civil Protection, particularly for the prevention and coordination of efforts in case of emergency or catastrophe.
 
The World Civil Defence Day is celebrated on March 1. However, taking into account the Carnival festivities celebrated by the school community on that date, the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service (SRPCBA) in partnership with the Santa Cruz da Graciosa Town Council has decided to mark the date on March 8.
 
Several drills, exhibitions and awareness-raising actions were carried out by various entities at Praça Fontes Pereira de Melo and at Graciosa Multipurpose Hall. They have involved the participation of Graciosa Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the National Republican Guard (GNR), the Public Security Police (PSP), the Regional Directorates for Health and Social Solidarity, and the Civil Protection Club of Graciosa Basic Education School.
 
"This is a time to raise awareness for the involvement and functions of the various entities in the provision of assistance to populations in situation of catastrophe. It is also an opportunity for the population to learn how to take action in situations of threat and adversity," said the Regional Secretary.
 
Rui Luís highlighted the performance of all local Civil Protection agents and emphasised the cooperative and cordial attitude of the population.
 
"Even in the most adverse situations, the Azoreans have demonstrated their ability to comply with the warnings and self-protection measures issued by the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, thus minimising damage as evidenced in the case of Julia and Kyllian depressions," said Rui Luís.
 
The government official pointed out that this is the result of the persistent commitment of SRPCBA in a cohesive training initiatives aimed at leaders, professionals and the community in general.
 
"Last year, about 200 awareness-raising actions aimed at more than 13,600 participants were carried out, while this year, 60 actions have already taken place in just two months, covering 2,800 students," said Rui Luís.
 
The Regional Secretary considered that Basic Civil Protection Courses organised for schools have contributed to the relevance of Civil Protection as well as the awareness-raising lectures on First Aid, Civil Protection Functions, Natural Risks and Self-Protection Measures.