From February 17 to 28, training sessions were organized and conducted for 43 volunteers from the volunteer fire and rescue bases of Khachik, Shikahogh, Martiros, Aragats, Yervandashat, Mets Parni, Tegh, and Meghradzor under the Rescue Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia implemented in cooperation with the Austrian Red Cross within the framework of the "Institutionalization of Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service in the Republic of Armenia" (VOLFIRE) program.

Funded by the Austrian Development Agency, the VOLFIRE program continues its extensive efforts to develop the volunteer rescue movement in Armenia. By providing mechanisms, necessary resources, advice, and sharing best practices, the program significantly enhances the readiness of volunteers to ensure first response during emergencies.

The training sessions began at Lusakert Training Base, consisting of both theoretical and practical phases.
Among the organizers and instructors of the training were Rescue Service officers who had participated in previous train-the-trainer courses under the program, psychological support specialists from the Rescue Service, lecturers from the Crisis Management State Academy (CMSA), representatives of the Armenian Red Cross Society, expert consultants involved in the program, as well as instructors from France. The training team emphasized the importance of the program and its impact on the future professional development and targeted activities of the participants.

During the sessions, the trainees were presented with theoretical knowledge on “Forest and Wildfires”, “Operational Management”, “Warning Coordination”, “Structural and Operational Fires”, “Technological and Natural Risks”, “First Aid”, “Psychological First Aid”. French specialists shared their experience with the volunteers, presented the capabilities of firefighting techniques and provided solutions to the issues of interest to the participants through a question-and-answer session. The volunteers then engaged in practical modules, including drills and tactical exercises, following safety regulations.

At the end of the training, results were summarized, and participants received certificates.

Additionally, the Director of the Rescue Service - Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Kamo Tsutsulyan awarded certificates of appreciation to the instructors from France.

These training sessions aim to have a long-term impact on the development of volunteer fire and rescue forces across all provinces of Armenia, ensuring enhanced individual preparedness and the formation of an efficient emergency response system.