Activities of Voluntary Fire Fighting-Gymnastics Societies «Sich» of Bukovyna in Security of Fire Protection of Region Population (1902-1914)

Abstract

At the beginning of the 20th century, Bukovyna faced a severe problem with fire safety. Local fire brigades and voluntary fire fighting societies could not fully protect the region from fires, especially in rural areas. To address this issue, fire fighting-gymnastic societies «Sich» were established, providing organized and effective fire protection services. The first «Sich» centre was founded in the town of Kitsman in 1902, and since then, the movement quickly expanded, covering new settlements. By 1912, there were already 142 voluntary fire fighting societies «Sich» in Bukovyna.
The «Siches» operated based on clearly defined statutes and had an organizational structure divided into units with specific tasks during fires: rescuing people and property, extinguishing fires, supplying water, and guarding saved property. Their effectiveness was ensured by regular training and drills. In 1904, a central governing body, the «Union of Siches in Bukovyna» was established to coordinate the activities of the societies and facilitate the exchange of experience and resources among them.
Besides fire fighting activities, the «Siches» actively contributed to the cultural and social life of the communities, organizing theatre groups, choirs, and other events that helped to preserve local traditions and folklore. Thus, they became important centres of community activity and cultural development.
World War I had a negative impact on the activities of the «Sich» societies, leading to their decline and cessation of functioning by 1921 due to repression by the new authorities.
Thanks to the organized activities of the fire fighting-gymnastic societies «Sich» it was possible to protect many settlements in Bukovyna from fires that were previously unprotected. The «Siches» became an integral part of the fire protection system in the region, demonstrating high efficiency and organizational skills in combating fires.