"Quito reduces forest fires by 70% thanks to comprehensive strategies and technology."

The city of Quito has experienced a notable advancement in the reduction of forest fires, according to a recent report from the Quito Fire Department. During the first half of 2024, there was a reported 70% decrease in the incidence of these disasters compared to the same period last year. This significant decline can be attributed to a comprehensive approach that encompasses everything from prevention to effective emergency response. Captain Gabriel Rodríguez of the Fire Department emphasized that although the forest fire season has not yet concluded, the results obtained so far are encouraging. The proactive efforts of the fire department are framed within a five-pillar plan that includes prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and analysis, allowing them to address the issue from multiple fronts. One of the cornerstones of this strategy has been the strengthening of public awareness. During the months of lower fire activity, firefighters conducted socialization campaigns to inform the population about the risks of open burning, a practice that has historically contributed to the proliferation of fires in the region. These initiatives aim to sensitize citizens about the importance of caring for the environment and adopting sustainable practices. In addition to educational campaigns, community clean-up events were held to promote the cleaning of areas susceptible to fires. These activities not only encouraged citizen participation but also helped reduce the accumulation of combustible materials in high-risk zones. Community collaboration has been a key aspect in tackling this issue, highlighting the shared responsibility in protecting the environment. Investment in technology has also been a determining factor in the reduction of fires. The Quito Fire Department allocated approximately $5 million for the acquisition of specialized equipment, including drones and thermal surveillance cameras. These advanced tools enable constant monitoring of forest areas and facilitate a rapid response to any fire outbreaks, thereby minimizing the impact of such events. However, despite the achievements, Captain Rodríguez warned that the months of July and August presented significant challenges, with 883 hectares burned in a short period. This increase, which primarily affected areas such as the Valle de Los Chillos, Eugenio Espejo, and Tumbaco, is largely attributed to irresponsible agricultural practices and adverse weather conditions. Statistics reveal that the persistence of these practices, combined with Quito's complex topography, continues to put the city's forest resources at risk. This underscores the need to strengthen educational campaigns and collaborate with farmers to promote methods that avoid waste burning and ensure proper land use. The implementation of advanced technology, such as surveillance cameras with fire detection capabilities through artificial intelligence, has improved the Fire Department's response capacity. These cameras, distributed across different sectors of the city, allow for quicker identification of fire outbreaks, resulting in a more effective reaction time during emergencies. The Quito Fire Department has demonstrated that the combination of investment in technology, education, and community collaboration is essential in addressing the issue of forest fires. Although the results achieved are promising, it is imperative to continue working on prevention and awareness, as well as implementing policies that encourage environmental stewardship. The reduction of forest fires in Quito is a step toward a more sustainable future, but the road ahead is still long. With the commitment of authorities, the right technology, and active citizen participation, the Ecuadorian capital can aspire to keep its forests and green areas safe from flames, thus ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.