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In Biobío, Campaign Launched to Fortify Homes Against Forest Fires

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The Forest Fire Prevention Steering Committee of the Biobío Wood Regional Strategic Program launched a campaign to reinforce the safety of homes, especially those built with wood, against forest fires.

The campaign, supported by Corfo and various institutions, focuses on a prevention guide and thirteen educational videos that show how simple actions can be crucial in the fight against fire.

Myriam Mellado, president of the committee and coordinator of the Community Prevention Network, emphasizes the importance of keeping the home's surroundings clean and orderly as the first line of defense. The guide, inspired by international manuals and adapted to Chile's reality, highlights the danger of ember showers and the importance of having non-combustible roofs and clean gutters.

Frane Zilic, manager of Biobío Madera, stresses that even homes far from the fire front can catch fire from flying embers, making it essential to seal access points and use heat-resistant materials. Additionally, the guide suggests creating self-protection zones around the home, with specific measures for each area.

The campaign not only promotes individual preparation but also collective efforts, working with neighborhood organizations and the forestry sector. Zilic aims to change the perception of wood, arguing that with proper design and a well-maintained environment, wooden homes are no more vulnerable than those made of other materials.