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Low Intentionality and "Single Strike" Strategy Highlighted in Addressing Forest Fires in Maule
A total of 885 forest fires were recorded in the Maule region during the 2024-2025 season, which is higher than the 771 that occurred in 2023-2024. However, in terms of the affected area, 5,199 hectares were destroyed in the most recent season, compared to 6,207 in the previous one.
Marcelo Rodríguez, regional head of the forest fire protection department of CONAR Maule, explained that although the number of fires increased, the same did not happen with the affected area, thus preventing greater damage to forests and plantations.
"The condition of the fuels, along with temperatures and winds, lets us know where a fire starts, but not where it ends. Under that premise, we dispatch aerial and ground resources, along with bidding teams, to any outbreak. This has resulted in fewer impacts during the season, especially during critical periods like the heatwaves that occur between December and February each season," he stated.
He added, "We have made efforts to have a contingency plan with the early deployment of operational brigades. This way, we will have planned the activation of a Maqui 10 brigade in Hualañé, in addition to Maqui 6 at Cerro La Virgen in Talca and Maqui 8 in Cauquenes."
"We are awaiting confirmation of a possible aerial resource that would arrive in the region on September 15 to address any potential outbreaks."
What will be the total number of brigades during the peak season?
"We have 23 brigades, of which 20 are daytime and 3 are nighttime. We complement this with 10 mechanized and water teams for this deployment."
What about intentionality or negligence in the origin of these forest fires?
"Negligence and accidents are the main causes in the region, accounting for over 90%. We do not have a very high rate of intentionality. Out of the 885 fires in the last season, around 80 were intentional. These are isolated cases that the police and prosecutors have been able to address as punishable acts, as it is a serious crime even punishable by imprisonment. Negligence is also penalized."
Source:Diario Talca
