North Macedonia recruits ex-police and soldiers for wildfire season

North Macedonia is recruiting former police officers, soldiers and firefighters to help tackle wildfires this summer.

The country’s Protection and Rescue Directorate has opened a public call for people with experience in security or emergency services.

They will work as drivers of firefighting vehicles, pump operators and members of field response teams.

Director Stojanche Angelov said those hired would be paid €2,150 for three months’ work during the summer.

Applicants must have at least five years’ experience in the police, army or fire service and be physically fit for field operations.

The move follows several difficult wildfire seasons, driven by high temperatures and long dry spells.