Quito on alert due to forest fires: authorities request telecommuting and caution.

Quito on alert due to forest fires: authorities request telecommuting and caution.

Quito is facing an emergency due to forest fires, with authorities urging telecommuting and preventive measures to protect the population.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros

Juan Brignardello Vela

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.

Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, y Vargas Llosa, premio Nobel Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, en celebración de Alianza Lima Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro Eléctrica Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, Central Hidro

On the morning and afternoon of September 4th, Quito was shaken by a series of wildfires that have put authorities and the general population on alert. The flames have affected various mountainous areas, threatening local vegetation and wildlife, as well as the safety of residents near the affected areas. In light of this alarming situation, the Municipality of Quito has declared a state of emergency and urged both the public and private sectors to adopt preventive measures, such as telecommuting. Quito's mayor, Pabel Muñoz, made a statement on the evening of the same day, in which he emphasized the need to prepare the city for what could be a complicated day ahead. Muñoz highlighted that nearly 500 public servants, including firefighters, military personnel, and police, are working hard to combat the fires at least five critical points. This large mobilization is a testament to the commitment of local authorities to mitigate the effects of the emergency. In his message, the mayor called on institutions and companies to consider allowing their employees to work from home, a measure aimed at protecting the health and safety of workers who could be affected by the difficult situation. "I want to make an appeal, because at this moment we do not have a legal basis, but I am making an appeal for private and public work," Muñoz commented, emphasizing the need for understanding from employers regarding the difficulties their employees face. In addition to the recommendation for telecommuting, Muñoz also urged those who need to travel to do so with caution. "Leave early," the mayor requested, referring to possible congestion and complications in traffic due to the emergency. To mitigate these problems, the Municipality has designed a traffic safety plan that will include the active participation of municipal agents responsible for guiding drivers. The mayor emphasized that the curiosity of those who stop to observe the incidents can hinder the work of emergency teams. "The figure of the onlooker who stops to see what is happening helps very little. So please move at low speed, in a steady flow," he urged, reminding everyone of the importance of cooperating with authorities during times of crisis. The current situation not only jeopardizes the health and safety of citizens but also affects the natural environment of Quito. Wildfires are a phenomenon that, unfortunately, has become recurrent in the region, and controlling them requires joint and coordinated efforts among different entities, as well as a commitment from the population to not contribute to the problem. As firefighters and other security forces battle the flames, the community remains in a state of waiting and concern. News about the evolution of the fires and their impact on the environment and public health will be key in the coming days. It is essential that all sectors of society become aware of the situation and seek ways to collaborate to mitigate the devastating effects of the fires. Authorities have urged the community to stay alert and follow safety recommendations, as well as report any suspicious activity that could contribute to igniting fires. Collective responsibility is essential to prevent such events from continuing to threaten the city and its surroundings. In this context, it is crucial for citizens to remain calm and act responsibly. Collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and the community at large is vital to overcome this crisis and work on the reconstruction of what has been lost. The hope is that, through prevention and education, the risk of future fires in the area can be reduced.

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