Island Council President visits Alcúdia fire station: Thanks to emergency services at Christmas

Island Council President visits Alcúdia fire station: Thanks to emergency services at Christmas

A quiet salute to those on duty during the holidays

On the evening of December 24 a cool breeze from the harbour swept through the streets of Alcúdia, among playing seagulls and the soft glow of Christmas lights. At the fire station by the exit toward the port there was nonetheless activity: flashlights were checked, helmets wiped clean, and the coffee machine was running. It was there, amid the routine, that Island Council President Llorenç Galmés, together with the responsible councillor Rafel Bosch, paid a visit to the emergency personnel and offered his thanks.

These visits are not grand appearances but short walks between the locker room and the garage. Galmés did not take the podium; he walked through the hall, looked at the vehicles and bid farewell with words of appreciation to people who were just taking over their shift. Officially, 46 personnel were on duty over the holidays — spread across the emergency dispatch centre and eight fire stations on the island — and that is more than a number: it is a visible safety net while others are celebrating.

The need for their work was apparent in the days before. In Muro there was an apartment fire on Tuesday evening in which an 84‑year‑old resident suffered serious injuries and required medical attention. And in Palma's district La Vileta a nighttime blaze destroyed four trash containers and two vehicles. Related coverage includes Fire at Alcúdia Hotel: Evacuation Succeeds — What Lessons Will the Island Learn?, Fire in Port d'Alcúdia: Why the big scare is also a wake-up call for fire safety and Mallorca's emergency crews head to the mainland: solidarity — and open questions.

For people on the island this is a quiet constant: while candles flicker in many living rooms, others make sure that the snowy light is not put at risk. The visit by the Island Council President is therefore more than a gesture — it is visible recognition for hours spent away from family and festive meals. It is a moment when the community sees who remains vigilant when most doors are closed.

What this concretely means for Mallorca is not hard to see: well‑equipped and motivated fire services reduce risks, speed up assistance and provide support to those affected. At the same time, such encounters build trust between the administration and emergency personnel — something you notice on the street when neighbours tell you how quickly help arrived or how calmly the control centre coordinated the operation.

As a small, practical outlook: those who live here or are visiting can give something back — not with big words, but with simple actions. Check smoke detectors (see NFPA smoke alarm safety tips), never leave candles unattended, and avoid placing heaters directly next to curtains (see American Red Cross fire safety tips). Municipalities can complement these efforts with prevention campaigns and information booths at local markets — turning the act of thanks into an opportunity for greater safety.

In Alcúdia the conversation was brief and the atmosphere relaxed. The sirens remained silent that night, which on Christmas Eve was probably the best present for everyone. Still, operations remain part of everyday life: firefighters who have the sea at their backs and yet must be ready to respond at any time. A simple thank you from the Island Council President, a handshake, a nod — small signs that matter on Mallorca.

Why this is good for Mallorca: Visible appreciation strengthens morale, increases readiness and makes clear: safety is a community effort. The fire service remains present, the administration shows support, and neighbours notice that responsibility is shared. This is more than symbolism — it is a practical advantage for the island.

Those out and about during the holidays: a bit of caution and respect for risks is often enough to prevent incidents. And if there is a fire — the fire brigade will come, holiday or not. For that, one can certainly say thank you.