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Community Operation Aims to Prevent Fires in Cerro Caracol

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With the goal of reinforcing wildfire prevention measures ahead of the summer season, the Biobío Housing and Urban Development Service (Serviu) carried out a community operation in the Cerro Caracol Metropolitan Park. This activity was conducted in collaboration with the Municipality of Concepción, Conaf, and the Agüita la Perdiz Neighborhood Council.

The day focused on removing combustible materials along the hillside bordering the residential area. This task was guided by technical teams from Serviu, Conaf, and the municipality, and supported by approximately 50 volunteers from the neighborhood and the University of Concepción. The action aimed to reduce immediate risks by creating a key fuel-break zone to protect nearby homes.

The director of Serviu, María Luz Gajardo, emphasized that these interventions are essential to prevent larger emergencies. "This year we wanted to strengthen prevention efforts, and we thank everyone who made this operation possible. It shows that we are working in a coordinated manner," she stated.

The municipality valued the collaborative work. Francisco Durán, Head of Emergencies at the Risk and Disaster Management Directorate, explained that this operation was planned over several months and represents the first preventive milestone of the summer.

From the community, José Cáceres, President of the Agüita la Perdiz Emergency Brigade, highlighted the importance of removing hazardous materials near homes and expressed gratitude for institutional and volunteer support.

Conaf also praised the initiative, especially given the preventive early warning activated due to the weekend heatwave. Provincial Chief Giovanny Serey stressed that such actions gain greater relevance considering the increase in fires compared to the previous season.

Additionally, the operation integrated an educational component and community co-responsibility, promoting a preventive culture and safer territorial management. It was part of the Park's Wildfire Prevention Campaign, which aims to reduce risks and strengthen collaborative efforts between institutions and citizens.