An Early Preventive Strategy
In a proactive move, the Deputy Minister of Territorial Cohesion and Water of the Government of the Canary Islands, Marcos Lorenzo, has made a request to the central Government to ensure the availability of aerial means of fighting fires in the Canary Islands throughout the year.
This request arises in response to the INFOCA Special Pre-alert Declaration, activated exceptionally since March 18, which indicates an advance of the forest fire risk season in the region.
Getting Ahead of Environmental Challenges
Lorenzo has highlighted that the decision to advance the pre-alert is based on adverse weather conditions and drought, following advice from experts. This measure seeks to coordinate preventive actions with local authorities, being vital to anticipate the availability of air resources and forestry brigades of the State.
The vice-counselor states: “It is essential to anticipate the positioning of state resources to intervene quickly and effectively in the extinction of possible forest fires.”
Participation in National Forums
Lorenzo, an active participant in the VIII Permanent National Commission and the Plenary Session of the National Civil Protection Council, has been present in recent discussions on civil protection strategies at the national level.
During these meetings in Madrid, progress in the national civil protection strategy and the availability of emergency resources provided by the General Directorate of Civil Protection and Emergencies of the Ministry of the Interior have been discussed.
Cooperation and Scientific Knowledge
In addition to his participation in events, Lorenzo has visited the Institute of Forest Sciences (INIA-CSIC) to better understand the scientific aspects related to forest fires.
This visit not only seeks to acquire knowledge, but also to establish collaborations between the research center and the Government of the Canary Islands, with the aim of more effectively addressing the constant threat posed by forest fires in the Canary Islands.