Means for tackling blazes in Beira Baixa region
In the heart of summer, the Beira Baixa region gears up for a substantial increase in forest fire defense resources, as the critical Delta phase commences on July 1 and runs through September 30. This critical period necessitates substantial resources due to the heightened risk of wildfires.
On May 15, DECIR 2025 was activated, targeting the most vulnerable areas of Beira Baixa with varying levels of operational commitment. As of now, the Bravo phase, ending May 31, boasts 569 operatives, 117 vehicles, and four aircraft.
As the summer season approaches, Beira Baixa expects reinforcement from human, land, and air resources, according to Pedro Nunes, Sub-Regional Commander of Emergency and Civil Protection. This joint effort features firefighters, the armed forces, the GNR, PSP, forestry sappers, the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, the Beira Baixa Intermunicipal Community, municipal Civil Protection services, and AFOCELCA.
During the Charlie phase, occurring from June 1 to June 30, permanent resources include 601 operatives, 154 vehicles, and eight aircraft. The system encompasses human, technical, and operational resources.
Beira Baixa Sub-Regional Command has also announced critical area surveillance by local security forces and awareness-raising events among rural populations, where historically fires inflict the most damage. Nunes emphasizes that most fires are the result of human negligence, particularly activities like burning piles, or using machinery on prohibited days.
The National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority urges residents of Beira Baixa to remain vigilant, reporting any fire observation to the national emergency number 112. The authority's preparedness underscores the severity and prevalence of wildfires in the region.
In the context of increased forest fire defense resources in the Beira Baixa region, it's likely that the scientific community may focus on studies related to environmental science, particularly the impact of wildfires on the region's ecosystem during the summer season. Moreover, given the significance of weather conditions during wildfire events, meteorologists might pay close attention to weather patterns and forecasts to aid emergency response teams.
