The article critically examines the role of Volunteer Fire Brigades (VFB) from the Nowy Targ municipality during the large-scale rural fire that affected Nowa Biała in June 2021. The study combines official post-incident operational documentation, institutional reports and empirical survey data collected from 100 volunteer firefighters representing 22 VFB units and 50 residents of Nowa Biała. The findings show that the local VFB played a first-line role during the initial response: the first Nowa Biała VFB unit arrived three minutes after notification, while the first State Fire Service (PSP) resources arrived 16 min after dispatch. Nevertheless, rapid local mobilisation did not prevent extensive losses because the rate of fire propagation rapidly exceeded the suppression capacity available during the initial phase. At the peak of the incident, approximately one additional building became involved every two minutes. The response was further constrained by dense development, strong and variable wind, very high water demand, communication problems, restricted access for heavy vehicles and aerial appliances, and pressure generated by distressed residents. Survey results confirm a very high assessment of VFB performance and interagency cooperation, while also highlighting the important role of volunteer firefighters in post-fire assistance and recovery. The paper concludes with recommendations concerning reinforced initial resource mobilisation, water supply, communication resilience, joint exercises, personnel readiness, digital warning tools and psychosocial support for responders.