Ustka strengthens local crisis preparedness through ClimaResponse

by Paulina Alexander, “Pomorskie in the EU” Association and ClimaResponse project partner

Family members, friends and neighbours are often the first to respond in crisis situations. That is why it is important for everyone to have at least a basic understanding of how to react — not only for their own safety, but also to support those who may be more vulnerable during emergencies. By helping one another, we strengthen the resilience of the entire community.

As a coastal and tourist city, Ustka in Poland faces specific climate-related risks, including extreme weather events and seasonal population increases. These challenges make coordinated preparedness and cooperation among local stakeholders particularly important.

On 22 April, International Earth Day, a crisis response training session was held in Ustka as part of the ClimaResponse project. The event brought together representatives from emergency services, local businesses and public administration. It was organised by the “Pomorskie in the European Union” Association in cooperation with Ustka Town Hall, with expert support from the Training Centre of the Provincial Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Gdańsk and the Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Słupsk.

Realistic simulations and practical exercises

The workshop consisted of two parts.

In the first session, Senior Brigadier Łukasz Trocki from the State Fire Service Training Centre in Gdańsk conducted fire safety training using mobile hazard simulators. Participants learned how to protect their homes and loved ones from fires and carbon monoxide. A house model and the “forest and lake” module illustrated how seemingly harmless everyday situations can quickly turn into serious threats.

In the second part, Captain Piotr Basarab and Captain Kamil Padusiński from the Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Słupsk led a crisis response training session based on emergency scenarios. Using the decision-making exercise “Storm in Ustka”, teams faced a series of challenges and had to respond quickly to a rapidly changing situation. This allowed participants to practise decision-making under pressure and effective cooperation in demanding conditions.

The main objectives of the training were to strengthen crisis response skills, increase climate awareness, and enhance cooperation between emergency services, public administration, public institutions and local businesses. Such initiatives are especially important in tourist destinations, where the safety of both residents and visitors must be planned in advance and addressed in a coordinated manner.

The training formed part of the wider ClimaResponse effort to test and develop practical tools that help cities better prepare for climate-related risks. By focusing on real-life scenarios and cross-sector cooperation, the workshop helped lay the groundwork for long-term resilience in Ustka and supported the city’s ongoing efforts to adapt to climate change and reduce disaster risks.

Programme Manual Online

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