The Government of Aragón honoured the volunteers of Protección Civil on Saturday, 24 October 2026, for their work during this year’s wildfire season. The recognition took place at the XXVI Congress of the Red de Agrupaciones de Voluntarios de Protección Civil de Aragón (RAVPCAR) in Mora de Rubielos, which brought together nearly 300 participants.
According to the regional government, more than Aragon burned this summer in 44,000 hectares. The fires led to almost 1,800 people being evacuated; around 2,100 people had to remain in their homes temporarily or were protected in place subject to certain conditions. To date, the volunteers have worked 13,300 hours and 3,406 call-outs. The Interior Department emphasised their role in evacuations, supporting those affected and preventing danger. The government also thanked the professional fire services and other state forces and aid organisations for their cooperation.
Those in charge highlighted that the ability to organise protective measures quickly had been essential in preventing more serious loss of life. The congress also served to bring together lessons from the season and review procedures between professional services and the volunteer system.
As a complementary measure, the Government of Aragón points to a funding scheme of 290,000 euros approved for 2026 for the Agrupaciones de Voluntarios de Protección Civil. The funds are intended for operating costs, maintenance and equipment; the scheme was published in the Official Gazette of Aragón. Its aim is to ensure the long-term operational readiness and equipment of the voluntary organisations.
According to the official interpretation, this summer’s events once again bring prevention to the fore: the measures called for range from vegetation management and training to technical modernisation. The regional government announced reviews of the operations to streamline processes and improve coordination between local, regional and, where necessary, national resources. No forecasts were made for the coming season; however, the authorities made clear that the updated lessons would be incorporated into plans and exercises without delay.
The figures and assessments cited come from statements by the Government of Aragón on the day of the congress and from the civil protection service’s official report for the current year.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).