In the Forest Brigade of Guanajuato, women are playing a crucial role in the fight against forest fires. Currently, five female firefighters are actively involved in containing the fire and in the incident command system in the logistical area. These brave women and men train daily to protect the biodiversity of Guanajuato from devastating forest fires.
In recent weeks, Guanajuato has faced adverse weather conditions, increasing the risk of forest fires. Therefore, a call has been made to the population to avoid throwing flammable materials in wooded areas, not to smoke in natural areas, to pick up the litter generated during outings, and to light campfires only in safe places, ensuring they are completely extinguished.
The firefighters of the Forest Brigade receive both basic and advanced training in fighting forest fires and in the Incident Command System. Close collaboration between the Forest Brigade, the State Coordination of Civil Protection, and environmental institutions at all levels of government is essential for the prevention, control, and extinction of these incidents.
The Forest Brigade currently consists of 25 members, with the possibility of expanding to 138 in the event of larger disasters. Its main objective is to protect local flora and fauna, contributing to the conservation of ecosystems and preventing fires that could have irreversible consequences. To join these forest brigades, information can be sought from the municipal Civil Protection coordinations.
Recently, Guanajuato has experienced several forest fires, one of the most serious being the one that occurred in Cerro del Palenque, where 200 hectares were devastated by flames. These events highlight the importance of reinforcing preventive measures and involving citizens in the protection of ecosystems. Prevention, especially during times of low relative humidity and absence of rain, is essential to preserve forests and prevent forest fires.
