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Santa Juana Advances Wildfire Season with Coordination, Prevention, and Technology

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The commune of Santa Juana, in the Biobío region, once again demonstrated its commitment to wildfire prevention by holding a new session of the Committee for Disaster Risk Management (Cogrid), a body that brings together public and private institutions to coordinate actions before the start of the critical season.

The meeting included the participation of Carabineros, Firefighters, Conaf, Frontel, CMPC, and Forestal Arauco, among other key organizations. Mayor Ángel Castro emphasized that "Santa Juana unfortunately has a history of wildfires, which is why we have prepared throughout the year with the Cogrid. Even in the middle of winter, we work to get ahead of what's coming, strengthening prevention alongside all institutions."

Among the implemented measures, the municipality reported the construction of over 70 kilometers of firebreaks, with expansion plans in both public and private areas. Additionally, an inter-communal drill with Nacimiento is being prepared, involving residents, schools, and civil organizations to enhance emergency response capabilities.

In terms of equipment, the commune will have helicopters, light aircraft, and brigades based in Santa Juana, along with the use of drones for preventive patrols and early detection of fire outbreaks. Mayor Castro also highlighted the joint work with police forces to pursue those responsible for intentional fires.

From the institutions, Lieutenant Sergio González, head of the Carabineros Tenancy, valued the coordination achieved and called on the community to report any illegal burning, while Captain Felipe López, from the First Fire Company, noted that they will have two 4x4 forest units and are seeking funding for a water supply semi-trailer.

Meanwhile, Nicole Perret, heritage manager of Forestal Arauco, reported that the company will have all its resources enabled by November 15, with daily patrols on critical routes and support in building firebreaks alongside neighboring residents.

The communal strategy extended to the public with the 2nd Wildfire Prevention Fair, held in the Plaza de Armas, where various organizations showcased their resources and provided recommendations to strengthen a culture of prevention in the community.

Thus, Santa Juana positions itself as a model commune in preparation and preventive coordination, anticipating the wildfire season with ongoing work, planning, and inter-institutional cooperation.