The Campania Region has approved the Regional Forest Fire Prevention Plan (AIB) for the three-year period 2024-2026, outlining a detailed strategy for the prevention, forecasting and contrast of fires. The document, published in the Official Bulletin of the Campania Region (BURC) n. 46 of 1 July, is the result of a careful analysis of the data relating to the fires that hit the region in 2023.
Over the past year, the Campania recorded 1.624 fires that devastated 1.836,22 hectares of forest and 1.609,85 hectares of other vegetation, such as pastures and agricultural land. Most of the fires, about 85%, occurred during the period of maximum danger, causing 88% of the burned surfaces.
To deal with this emergency, over 2.000 operators have been mobilized. The contingent includes 1.938 AIB operators among the staff of the delegated bodies (692), SMA Campania (224), Fire Brigade (50) and civil protection volunteers (972). In addition, 118 Extinguishing Operations Directors (DOS) have been activated, distributed among delegated bodies, Fire Brigade, local authorities and organized volunteers.
The Regional Plan emphasizes a series of strategic measures aimed at preventing and controlling forest fires. These include enhanced surveillance activities to prevent illegal acts, continuous monitoring during the period of maximum danger and preventive actions through targeted surveillance services and monitoring of the territory, including aerial. The goal is to reduce the causes of man-made fires, thanks to an effective sighting network.
In detail, the Plan also includes information and awareness initiatives, with meetings with Municipalities and public education campaigns, such as "Io Non Rischio". The Region has also introduced a bulletin for forecasting fire risk for the summer period, intended for Municipalities, which classifies risk levels into four scenarios: low (green), medium (yellow), high (orange) and very high (red).
Campania covers an area of 1.359.025 hectares, of which 491.259 hectares are occupied by forest areas. Of these, 55% is privately owned, while 44,6% is public. 64,84% of the regional forests are included in protected areas. The fire-fighting strategy is supported by agreements with the Regional Fire Department and the Forestry Carabinieri, ensuring coordinated and timely action.
Monitoring and patrolling the territory, crucial during the period of maximum danger, are entrusted to SMA Campania Spa and specialized volunteer organizations. These teams, duly equipped, are ready to intervene promptly to contain the damage of the fires.
Article published on 3 July 2024 - 18:30
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