Fire in Almuñécar: Pre-emergency phase deactivated after positive assessment.

The forest fire declared in Almuñécar, Granada, last Tuesday has led authorities to activate the pre-emergency phase of the Emergency Plan for Forest Fires in Andalusia. Although the situation has evolved favorably and the pre-emergency phase was deactivated on Wednesday night, the damage and concern have not been minor. Operational situation 0 was implemented as a preventive measure in response to the uncertain advance of the fire, which threatened several local communities. The Minister of the Presidency, Interior, Social Dialogue, and Administrative Simplification of the Junta, Antonio Sanz, announced the deactivation of this phase at 11:32 PM. This decision was made after an assessment by the firefighting management, which considered the fire stabilized. However, it is important to clarify that "stabilized" does not mean that the fire is completely under control. The stabilization of the fire suggests that there are no active fronts, allowing for better management of the situation, but the risk still persists. One of the most concerning consequences of the fire has been the hospitalization of a 57-year-old woman due to smoke inhalation. This incident highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need to remain alert to the effects of carbon monoxide and other toxic gases produced by the fire. The woman was transferred to Santa Ana Hospital in Motril for appropriate medical care, underscoring the impact that such incidents can have on public health. Since the onset of the fire, a large deployment of the Forest Fire Extinction Operational Service (SEIF) has been tirelessly working to contain the situation. A total of 78 personnel have been on the ground, supported by four fire trucks and a team of specialized technicians, all committed to extinguishing the fire. Additionally, medical and meteorological units have been incorporated to assess conditions and ensure the safety of the operations. The alarms were triggered when the Emergency Phone 112 received its first call around 8:15 PM on Tuesday. From that point on, over a hundred calls arrived at the Andalusian Emergency Coordination Center, alerting about the fire in the Peña Escrita path area. The rapid response of the emergency services was crucial in containing the fire and minimizing damage. The activation of the pre-emergency phase is part of the new Territorial Civil Protection Emergency Plan of Andalusia, which establishes clear protocols for risk situations. This phase is activated in response to phenomena that, although not causing significant damage initially, present an uncertain evolution that could endanger the population. Emergency management in Andalusia has proven fundamental in safeguarding the safety of its citizens. Despite the deactivation of the pre-emergency phase, the local community faces the uncertainty generated by these fires. The nature of these phenomena keeps the population alert, hoping that weather conditions do not favor new fire outbreaks. The experience from this event has imparted lessons on the importance of prevention and preparedness in the face of emergencies. It is vital for citizens to engage in protecting their environment, remaining vigilant about activities that could ignite fires and collaborating with authorities in disseminating information. Furthermore, environmental education plays a crucial role in mitigating risk, promoting responsible practices that help preserve the environment and community safety. Finally, it is a moment for reflection for all actors involved in emergency management. Cohesion among emergency services, local authorities, and the community is essential to face future challenges. As this pre-emergency phase is deactivated, the commitment of all to protect nature and citizens must remain firm and proactive.