First Vice-premier of RF Government: Situation with forest fires in the country is under control

“Situation with forest fires in the country is under control”, - First Vice-premier of RF Government Viktor Zubkov said while staying in Kazan.

On finishing session organization committee of horse races for the prize of RF President Viktor Zubkov noted that areas susceptible to forest fires are wider this year than in 2011 but at the same time less than in 2009 and 2008.

First Vice-premier of RF Government informed that about 10 bln. roubles were allocated this year by federal budget for prevention and control of forest fires. Last yea the sum was 2,5 bln. roubles. “We gave more machinery to regions, tested new structures of forestry management. Regions themselves also took measures and invested money.

V.Zubkov cited as an example Tatarstan which allocated money for purchasing fire trucks for district branches of Ministry of emergency situations.

Viktor Zubkov considers that for successful fire-fighting it is important to increase responsibility of municipal authorities. “Above all, in regions work should be organized not only at the level of government, but with citizens as well. It is essential so that heads of municipal formation bear more responsibility, in order that they will not go on vocation when the fire rages in the region. One who does not follow requirements of fire safety should be punished”, - First Vice-premier of RF Government believes.