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PDI Calls for Reporting Intentional Forest Fires

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The Investigative Police of Chile (PDI), through the Environmental and Cultural Heritage Crime Investigation Brigade (Bidema) Aysén, has called for vigilance regarding the incidence of forest fires during the summer season, where the combination of high temperatures, wind, and negligence can become serious risk factors.

This is part of the digital campaign Fuego Cero, a PDI initiative aimed at encouraging the reporting of intentional fires during the summer season to protect the community.

Commissioner Marcelo Ladino, head of Bidema Aysén, stated that recent studies indicate over 99% of forest fires are caused by human action, emphasizing the need to act in defense of flora and fauna.

When a forest fire occurs, in coordination with the Public Ministry, the PDI intervenes with its expertise in investigative work, criminal analysis, and scientific-technical efforts to identify potential causes and perpetrators of the incident.

In this regard, the PDI highlighted that investigating intentional fires is crucial for clarifying these events, urging the public to provide as much information as possible if they witness someone starting a forest fire or notice a suspect near the location and time of ignition.

The call is to immediately report to the PDI to initiate appropriate actions, providing details such as physical descriptions, clothing, tattoos, or other identifying features of the suspect.

Similarly, if a vehicle is observed near the location and time a fire started, it is important to note the make, model, color, and license plate. Additionally, attention should be paid to distinctive details like stickers, accessories, damages, etc.

"The most important thing is to immediately inform the relevant authorities for an effective response, as forest fires affect forests and their biodiversity. Preventing a fire means protecting our flora and fauna," emphasized Commissioner Ladino.

Bidema Aysén reminded that both intentional fires and those caused by negligence are punishable by law.

Commissioner Ladino reiterated that using fire or other heat sources in Protected Wilderness Areas is prohibited unless properly authorized and marked by the responsible authority, urging the public to avoid using fire in outdoor recreational activities.

"We recommend not lighting campfires, not discarding cigarette butts or embers, and avoiding welding or similar work during hot weather. Additionally, we help by reporting sightings of fire or flames—an action that can save the lives of hundreds of animals, as well as thousands of trees and vegetation," he stated.

Bidema Aysén emphasized advising residents of rural or semi-rural areas to create perimeter firebreaks around their homes and, if near or witnessing the start of a forest fire, to avoid approaching the flames due to the danger and the potential hindrance to firefighters' efforts.

Source:Diario Regional Aysen