Following the major wildfires that swept through Deliblato Sands during the summer, McDonald’s Serbia and the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation have continued their cooperation aimed at supporting local communities in fire prevention and protection. Thanks to a donation from McDonald’s Serbia, 29 backpack fire extinguishers have been provided to volunteer fire brigades and the Deliblatsko Jezero Sports Fishing Association, which took part in efforts to protect this valuable natural area during the summer.
Although the wildfires in Deliblato Sands have been extinguished, the need for equipment remains. Replenishing supplies of backpack fire extinguishers is particularly important for volunteer fire brigades and local associations to ensure they are well prepared for the coming year.
“When fighting fires in difficult-to-access areas, our backpack fire extinguishers often get torn as we make our way through dense vegetation and undergrowth. This equipment is used intensively and wears out quickly, so every new backpack fire extinguisher makes a real difference to us. Although the fire has been extinguished, it is important that we replenish our equipment and be ready for the next fire season,” said Aleksandar Sarmeš, President of the Deliblatsko Jezero Sports Fishing Association.
The donated equipment has been distributed to volunteer fire brigades across the municipality of Kovin, including those in Mramorak, Deliblato, Gaj, Dubovac, Kovin, Bavanište, Skorenovac and Pločica, as well as to the Deliblatsko Jezero Sports Fishing Association, the officially designated management authority of the Kraljevac Special Nature Reserve in Deliblato.
The backpack fire extinguishers have a capacity of 25 litres and are designed for firefighting operations in areas that are difficult for fire engines to reach. Carried on the back, they enable a rapid response, particularly in forested areas and other hard-to-access locations. Their practical value is especially significant for volunteer fire brigades, whose commitment and efforts make an important contribution to protecting local communities and natural resources.
“When a fire is extinguished, the job is not over. It is essential that those who took part in fighting the fire have the appropriate equipment to face future challenges. Volunteer firefighters often work in extremely difficult conditions, relying on their own dedication and solidarity. That is why we are particularly pleased that, thanks to our long-standing partnership with McDonald’s Serbia, we have been able to help replenish their equipment. Donations like these may seem modest, but they can make a tremendous difference on the ground,” said Ana Koeshall, Director of the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation.
This donation marks a continuation of the cooperation between McDonald’s Serbia and the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation in supporting communities affected by wildfires. In 2025, through this partnership, 27 backpack fire extinguishers were provided to residents of villages in the Toplica District, who were facing major wildfires and their consequences at the time.
For nearly two decades, the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation has been supporting individuals and communities across Serbia, particularly during emergencies and in the aftermath of natural disasters. Many of these activities would not have been possible without the solidarity and support of socially responsible companies, institutions and individuals. Partnerships such as the Foundation’s long-standing cooperation with McDonald’s Serbia are crucial in enabling the Foundation to respond promptly to the needs of citizens and contribute to building safer, more resilient and more supportive communities.
