The Finnish Defence forces, with its offshore bases, boats, equipment and personnel have traditionally taken care of local emergencies on many of Finland's islands.
One naval base on the small island of Utö was closed at the beginning of the year, taking with it most of the local population and its emergency services. The base used to take care of all rescue operations, including oil spillages, road maintenance, health care and even provided school meals.
Finland's Emergency Services have classified the southwest archipelago as a high-risk area for emergencies of all kinds. The population skyrockets in the summer months with visiting tourists and holidaymakers. Boat and ferry traffic through the islands is also growing every year.
Locals now say they're not sure who to call for help when an emergency happens. With the military leaving, the south west archipelago's residents are left wondering, how will their emergency services be maintained.
Authorities are now training the locals on Utö to take care of their own emergency needs and providing them with a multi-purpose fire fighting trailer.
Locals are used to being self-reliant. But the people of Utö and other island communities are still not reassured. They are worried that they do not have the capabily to effectively respond to emergencies.
YLE24