Fire Brigade Faces Fines Over Unacceptable Emission Levels in Madrid
Last Monday, an unusual scene unfolded on the streets of Madrid when the Civil Guard immobilized and fined a van belonging to the Fire Brigade. The reason for the sanction was the detection of smoke emissions far exceeding permitted limits. According to reports from Cadena Ser, Israel Naveso from the Firefighters Union affiliated with CSITProfessional Union expressed that he was not surprised by these measures, suspecting that the vehicle may not have been in good condition.
The vehicle in question, which is nearly 20 years old, was escorted by agents to an ITV station. There, it was revealed that the opacity of its emissions reached an alarming level of 702, significantly higher than the maximum permitted level of 184. In accordance with established protocols, the Civil Guard had no choice but to impose a fine on the driver present at the time.
Despite the circumstances, Naveso clarified that the driver, a colleague of his, bore no responsibility for the van’s condition. Unfortunately, the driver had to pay the fine of 200 euros out of pocket. However, the union reported that the Community of Madrid has pledged to reimburse the firefighter once the penalty is enforced. The spokesperson raised concerns, stating, "It would only be missing for the firefighter himself to have to pay it."
Concerns regarding the condition of firefighter vehicles have been a recurring issue. Several months ago, the Firefighters Union took their grievances to the Assembly of Madrid, highlighting the aging fleet with an average age exceeding 20 years. Naveso described the situation as indicative of a troubling lack of investment in essential services, fearing that such conditions could potentially lead to accidents.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Environment contended that the fire brigade's fleet is generally in good condition and noted that the fined vehicle possessed a valid ITV. Nonetheless, they acknowledged the necessity for modernizing the fleet and replacing the oldest vehicles.
Moreover, the Ministry expressed appreciation for the goodwill displayed by their employee in paying the fine upfront, emphasizing that normally, such financial responsibilities would be addressed by the organization itself. They assured that the firefighter would eventually receive reimbursement for the fine.
This incident has shed light on the pressing issues facing emergency services, particularly regarding equipped vehicle conditions, and raises questions about the level of commitment to ensuring public safety in Madrid.
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