Crisis management and organizational adjustment of the Municipal Guards in Kielce

Research objective: The aim of the article is to present the concept of recognizing the Kielce City Guard as an important element of the crisis management system and an entity of population protection and civil defense in the Kielce commune. The study also examines the legal framework, organizational structure, and scope of tasks of the City Guard in relation to the requirements resulting from crisis threats and the need to ensure public safety. Methodology: The research employed an analytical-descriptive approach, source material analysis, and system analysis. Key security challenges for the community and urban infrastructure of Kielce were categorized in the context of potential crisis situations. The study included an analysis of legal regulations, a review of literature, as well as quantitative data from reports, statements, and statistics concerning the activities of the Kielce City Guard. Main findings: The organizational structure, staffing, technical resources, and adaptability of the Kielce City Guard make it one of the key entities in the local security and public order system. Acting in cooperation with the Police, fire brigade, ambulance service, and other public safety bodies, the City Guard demonstrates significant potential to undertake tasks related to population protection and civil defense. Application of the study: The results may be used to improve legislative, organizational, and logistic solutions concerning the functioning of the City Guard, as well as to develop effective communication models with residents in crisis situations. Originality/Novelty of the study: The article combines theoretical analysis with a practical perspective on the role of the City Guard in the public security system, highlighting its importance as an entity of population protection and civil defense in Poland.