On a couple of occasions I thought I would give up, I thought I wouldn’t be able to pass, the weather was very bad, Jovan Zaklan, a resident of the village of Krbavica, who took part in the dramatic rescue operation of the family that was buried in the snow in the forest, told 24 hours later. Namely, on Friday after 1 p.m., the firemen received a report that the family was missing. They immediately dispatched a two-hour shift of three firefighters from JVP Plitvička Jezera and one firefighter from DVD Plitvička Jezera with a total of two pickup vehicles to the field.
– In one place we stuck a shovel handle, there was probably a meter of snow. When we got to the people, they looked very scared, they couldn’t believe they were stuck. They camp all over Croatia, they went from Karlobag to Slavonia and beyond. alarms stayed with us. They weren’t paying attention. They said that there is no such thing in Slavonia – they told us from the Voluntary Fire Society of Plitvice Lakes.
Due to the high snow, over 80 cm in places, the firefighters made their way on foot for two kilometers through the forest road to the lost vehicle, where they arrived at 14:26. In addition to firefighters, Komunalc machines and Jovan Zaklan’s tractor also took part in the rescue operation.
– I was at home and then the firefighters asked me if I could help them. I made my way to the top, it was terrible, but it was even worse for the boys. They went on foot. When I got to the people, they were beside themselves, the child was crying – Jovan told us.
He also adds that the snow is still high with them and that he helps other neighbors who need it.
– Normally, I was happy that I helped people, it’s a nice feeling, Now we also manage, but that’s normal with us, I help everyone I can, I know the whole terrain – Jovan tells us. The family was taken care of in the Đač home Korenica where it is warm and safe.
– I commend the firefighters of Plitvice Lakes who participated in rescuing the family in difficult weather conditions. This is proof that our firefighters are ready and equipped for all situations, but primarily that they have a big firefighting heart – said chief fire chief Slavko Tucaković.