A barn in Križevci burned to the ground, firefighters managed to save a puppy

A fire broke out in a barn in Križevci on Friday afternoon, destroying the structure completely and forcing firefighters to rescue a four-legged companion. The incident occurred around 3:24 pm in the settlement of Iljaševci, near the town of Križevci. Firefighters from several local units, including PGD Boreci, PGD Iljaševci, PGD Križevci, PGD Stara Nova vas, and PGD Vučja vas, responded swiftly to the emergency and successfully extinguished the blaze. According to reports, the barn, measuring approximately 150 square meters, was entirely consumed by flames. Firefighters from PGD Iljaševci remained on site to monitor the situation and ensure no further spread of the fire. The initial response by the firefighters prevented damage to neighboring buildings, which they managed to protect upon arrival. In addition, they were able to save a family pet, a four-legged animal, from the burning structure. Police later conducted an investigation and determined that the fire originated from a garage and an older barn located on the property. There were no other animals present at the time of the incident. A spokesperson for the police station in Murska Sobota, Suzana Rauš, stated that the cause of the fire is likely due to an electrical fault. The estimated financial loss from the damage is around €30,000. In another unrelated incident, a fire erupted in a derelict barn in Sveti Florjan, part of the municipality of Rogaška Slatina, on Thursday evening at 10:18 pm. Responding units included PGD Sv. Florjan, PGD Steklarna Rogaška Slatina, and PGD Rogaška Slatina. These teams managed to put out the fire and conduct a thorough inspection using thermal imaging cameras to rule out any hidden hotspots. Despite their efforts, one firefighter from PGD Steklarna Rogaška Slatina sustained injuries during the operation. As of now, the extent of the damages to the vehicle has not been disclosed. Both incidents highlight the challenges faced by firefighting services in dealing with agricultural fires, particularly when structures are left unattended or poorly maintained. While the causes of both fires remain under investigation, preliminary assessments suggest that electrical faults could have played a role in the Križevci case. In contrast, the cause of the fire in Sveti Florjan is still unknown, though authorities are working to determine its origin. Local residents expressed relief that the firefighters were able to contain the fires effectively, especially in the Križevci case where a pet was saved. However, concerns over the safety of abandoned properties and the need for regular maintenance of electrical systems were raised. Officials emphasized the importance of prompt action and community vigilance in preventing such incidents. Fire departments continue to investigate both cases, with additional findings expected in the coming days. Authorities are also reviewing procedures and equipment usage following the incident in Sveti Florjan, where a firefighter was injured. Both communities await further updates on the status of repairs and any potential legal actions related to the incidents. For now, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and preventing future occurrences through improved infrastructure and awareness.