Logistic Protection of Volunteer Firefighting Units of the National Rescue and Firefighting System during Long-Term Rescue Operations on the Example of Floods

Aim: The aim of the article is to present the method of dispatching the units of the Volunteer Fire Service of the national rescue and firefighting system (OSP KSRG) to long-term rescue operations and to characterize the logistic protection of the units during such operations. The example of the 2010 floods in the Świętokrzyskie region was used as the basis for the analysis. Methodology: During the preparation of the article, the method of analysis was used to explore in more depth the issue of logistic protection of units in long-term rescue operations. A critical analysis of the literature on the subject proved important. Also used was a case study of the logistic protection of OSP KSRG units during the 2010 floods in the Świętokrzyskie region. Conclusions: OSP KSRG units involved in a long-term rescue operation do not have their own logistical facilities, additional equipment or stocks of propellants and grease in sufficient quantities. Therefore, there is a need to implement new solutions aimed at modifying the procedures for logistical security of OSP units participating in long-term rescue operations. The analysis of the case study showed that the autonomy of OSP KSRG units in long-term rescue operations should include securing basic supplies: water, food, liquid fuels and grease, as well as the ability to create their own welfare facilities, including their own sleeping bags, as and tents, field beds, blankets, which will allow firefighters to rest on an ad hoc basis during the action. The use by OSP units of logistic protection capabilities based on local field resources requires the development of guidelines and procedures for the use of the resources in question, as well as an indication of the type of services needed. During the development of rescue plans, entities providing specific logistic services to OSP units should be listed. Keywords: Volunteer Fire Service, State Fire Service, national rescue and firefighting system, logistic protection, action logistics, long-term rescue operations