The Regional Secretary for Health praised on Friday the support provided by the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service to the population affected by floods that occurred on the island of São Miguel last Thursday.

"It was a clear demonstration of the efficiency of the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, which also evidences that this service is capable of providing a response to the Azorean population when necessary," stated Luís Cabral. The government official spoke to journalists on the sidelines of the celebrations of the World Day of Civil Protection in Angra do Heroísmo.

The event was celebrated on Terceira Island with several activities addressed at basic education students, including recreational activities and information sessions on areas related to earthquakes, storms, use of fire extinguishers and emergency numbers.

The Regional Secretary for Health emphasised the importance of developing a close relation with children, stressing that "they are a privileged means of conveying information amongst their families."

Luís Cabral reiterated the importance of integrating Civil Protection services in the area of health and noted that 95% of the activities developed by the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service take place in this area, particularly in the transport of patients.

For that reason, the government official announced that "the plan for 2013 estimates a significant investment in the area of health under the Civil Protection Service."

This investment includes the implementation of the Azores Health Line and the expansion of Immediate Life Support (SIV) ambulances.