Their mission focused on protecting urban areas, containing active fire fronts, and applying firefighting techniques adapted to the characteristics of the region.
Eight members of the Mallorca Fire Brigade and two 4×4 vehicles arrived this morning in Palma, after spending a week assisting in the extinction of wildfires that have affected several areas of Castilla y León.
The Mallorcan firefighters departed last Tuesday, August 19, from the Port of Alcúdia, as part of the operation coordinated by the Directorate General of Emergencies of the Government of the Balearic Islands. The response was immediate: within just 24 hours, 37 volunteers offered to join the mission, of whom eight were finally deployed along with two multipurpose 4×4 vehicles.
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Mallorca Firefighters Return from Castilla y León After a Week of Intense Work Fighting Wildfires
The professionals worked under extreme weather conditions and in difficult terrain, facing fast-moving fires with constant flare-ups. Their task focused on the protection of urban centres, containing active fire fronts, and implementing firefighting strategies adapted to the area’s specific challenges.
The Minister of Finance, Innovation and Public Service, Rafel Bosch, expressed his gratitude: “I want to thank them on behalf of all Mallorcans. They have proven to be excellent professionals in a very tough and demanding environment. Now we must continue strengthening prevention and call for caution, because any carelessness can lead to devastating wildfires.”
According to firefighter corporal Guillem Mas, “The experience was very positive, despite the tension and the sadness of witnessing firsthand the impact of such devastating fires. Coordination with the other emergency services was flawless, and the warm reception from the local population was truly moving.”
Meanwhile, firefighter Toni Pujol explained that conditions were extremely demanding and that, despite protection, some team members suffered physical problems due to heat and smoke. However, he emphasised: “Everyone was necessary; no one was redundant. The gratitude people showed us for having crossed Spain to help them is one of the most emotional experiences I’ve lived as a professional.”
The operation also allowed the Mallorca Fire Brigade to apply skills in situations not common in the Balearic Islands, such as water pumping and distribution from rivers or interventions in large forested areas. This exchange of techniques and experiences is one of the added values of inter-regional cooperation in emergencies of this magnitude.
After a week of intense work and effort, the Mallorca Fire Brigade once again demonstrates its commitment to protecting people and the natural environment—not only in the Balearic Islands but wherever it is needed.