Enhancing Crisis Readiness: Civil Protection Exercises and Public Awareness in the City of Zagreb

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores the role of civil protection exercises and public awareness initiatives in improving emergency preparedness in the City of Zagreb. The city regularly conducts exercises involving various stakeholders to assess the effectiveness and coordination of emergency services in crisis situations. Public education campaigns also play a key role in boosting community resilience by equipping citizens with the necessary skills to respond to emergencies.

The research focuses on two major drills held last year: one simulating a radiological incident and another involving a large-scale rescue operation. Data was gathered from official reports, expert evaluations, and observations. The study also analyzes real-life emergencies, such as an earthquake and storm, to assess their impact on current preparedness strategies. Public education efforts were evaluated based on participation and effectiveness. The findings suggest that civil protection exercises improve coordination and operational efficiency among emergency services. While real-life incidents have exposed gaps in coordination and resource management, ongoing training and system improvements are needed. Public awareness initiatives have been effective in educating citizens, but more outreach is required to enhance societal resilience. Combining structured exercises and public education is crucial for strengthening crisis preparedness in Zagreb.

1. INTRODUCTION

This paper examines how civil protection exercises and public awareness initiatives contribute to improving the City of Zagreb’s preparedness for emergency situations. The city regularly conducts exercises involving all relevant stakeholders to assess the effectiveness and coordination of emergency services in crisis scenarios. Additionally, public education campaigns play a crucial role in enhancing community resilience by equipping citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to emergencies.

2. METHODOLOGY

The research is based on an analysis of civil protection exercises conducted in Zagreb, focusing on two major drills held last year: one simulating a radiological incident and another involving the rescue of multiple individuals from a complex of three large buildings. Data was gathered from official reports, expert evaluations, and observations of exercise performance. Furthermore, the study incorporates insights from real-life emergencies, such as an earthquake and a severe storm, to evaluate how past experiences have shaped current preparedness strategies. Public education efforts were also analyzed through participation levels and effectiveness in raising awareness about disaster response measures.

3. RESULTS

Findings indicate that civil protection exercises significantly contribute to improving coordination, decision-making speed, and operational efficiency among emergency services, including medical teams, firefighters, and law enforcement. While exercises help identify shortcomings in response strategies, real-life emergencies have further exposed gaps in inter-agency coordination and resource management. The study highlights the importance of continuous training and system improvements to address these challenges. Additionally, public awareness initiatives have proven effective in educating citizens about emergency preparedness, though further engagement and outreach efforts are necessary to enhance overall societal resilience. The combination of structured exercises and public education is essential for strengthening crisis readiness in the City of Zagreb.