The Orihuela City Council, through the Department of Emergencies and Civil Protection, has launched a new volunteer recruitment campaign to strengthen the Local Civil Protection Group. This group, one of the most veteran in the region, is a fundamental resource both in emergency situations and for the numerous preventive services carried out throughout the year in the municipality.
The Councilor for Emergencies and Civil Protection, Víctor Valverde, accompanied by the head of the Local Group, Abderraman Arch, and the deputy head, Antonio Vicente, presented the initiative. Valverde highlighted the significant participation of volunteers in Orihuela, who are a fundamental part of facing emergencies and carrying out ordinary services.
The campaign responds to the need to renew and expand the number of active participants, as some volunteers no longer have the necessary time to balance the activity with their obligations. Currently, the group has about ten active volunteers, a figure they aim to increase to have more prepared personnel for any situation. "When we talk about an emergency, we need trained, organized, and available people," stated Valverde, recalling the importance of volunteers in situations like the DANA or various emergency episodes.
The call for applications will be open until October 15th. Interested individuals can apply for incorporation through an electronic application. Participation is open to diverse profiles; young people between 16 and 18 years old can participate with parental or guardian authorization, and from 18 years old, anyone meeting the requirements can join. Knowledge in health, technology, or emergency-related fields is valued, but individuals without specific training who are eager to learn and help are also welcome.
After submitting the application, candidates will undergo an interview, must meet the established requirements, and pass a psychotechnical assessment. Subsequently, they will become trainee volunteers and receive the necessary training.
As part of the campaign, next Saturday, October 3rd, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, an open day for the public will be held at La Glorieta in Orihuela under the slogan 'Exhibition of resources and volunteer recruitment'. The event will allow attendees to learn firsthand about the work, resources, vehicles, and communication systems of Civil Protection.
Valverde emphasized that Civil Protection's work is not limited to major emergencies but also includes participation in preventive services during events such as the Reconquista Festival, Holy Week, sports events, neighborhood and district festivals, and cultural activities. They also reinforce measures during heatwaves, fire risks, or heavy rainfall episodes.
The Deputy Head of the Group, Antonio Vicente, stressed the goal of having more prepared individuals to respond and assist the municipality, offering training and knowledge about emergencies. The head of the group, Abderraman Arch, highlighted the training opportunities offered by volunteering, especially for those already in emergency fields or preparing for emergency service access.
Valverde concluded the presentation by calling for participation, encouraging residents to visit La Glorieta to meet the volunteers and learn about their work, reminding them that "anyone can contribute and all help counts when it comes to being prepared to help others."
