ARANCI has reported that Colombia’s National Association for Fire Protection (ANRACI) is marking its 10th anniversary in 2025.
The association represents the country’s fire protection sector, including manufacturers, distributors, designers, installers, laboratories, and professionals.
ANRACI has promoted technical standards, training, and awareness campaigns during its first decade.
It said the association has coordinated with public and private entities to address fire risks, which it described as often underestimated.
ANRACI Executive Director Hugo Torres Bahamón said: “We have worked for ten years to strengthen prevention and raise awareness of the real risks posed by fire.
“Fires are not just material losses.
“They leave deep consequences for people and communities.”
ANRACI has highlighted the role of volunteer fire departments across Colombia.
It said the Cali Volunteer Fire Department has been recognized as a benchmark for its response capacity.
Other cities such as Bogotá and Medellín were also reported to have established departments supporting ANRACI’s goals.
The organisation added that most Colombian fire departments operate with volunteers, which creates resource and training challenges.
Despite these challenges, ARANCI reported that the professionalism of volunteers has been consistently acknowledged.
It stated that ANRACI has supported these groups through training, alliances, and initiatives to raise their visibility.
ARANCI has reported that Colombia records between 7 and 10 structural fires daily, exceeding 3,000 incidents annually.
It said Cali alone averages 1.6 fires per day, with most incidents occurring in homes and businesses.
The organisation reported that forest fires also remain a concern, particularly during dry periods.
It noted that vegetation growth, lack of rural maintenance, and climate change contribute to the spread of large-scale fires.
ANRACI said these statistics illustrate both economic and human impacts, as fires damage property and affect long-term wellbeing.
According to ARANCI, faulty electrical installations are responsible for around 35 percent of reported fires.
It said these include cable damage, overloaded systems, and improvised connections.
The association added that open flames such as stoves and candles are another major cause, particularly in low-income households.
It noted that lack of insurance and failure to install basic fire protection equipment have left many households vulnerable.
The organisation explained that steps such as installing smoke alarms, having fire extinguishers, and maintaining insurance policies can limit risks.
ARANCI reported that Colombia’s current regulatory framework is built on the NSR-10 standard, introduced in 2010.
The association explained that while it includes provisions for fire protection, it is no longer aligned with current risks.
It said emerging threats such as lithium battery storage, electric mobility, and new construction materials are not addressed.
ANRACI stated that standards must evolve with technological changes and stressed the need for effective enforcement at local levels.
It added that training, oversight, and the involvement of authorities are necessary to ensure compliance.
According to ARANCI, Medellín will host Fire Expo Latam on October 1 and 2, 2025.
It said the event will bring together international experts, companies, authorities, and fire departments.
The organisation reported that exhibitors will showcase technologies in detection, alarms, extinguishing systems, and portable firefighting equipment.
It added that the event aims to improve public awareness of fire risks as well as highlight the need for regulatory updates.
ANRACI explained that the expo is intended to strengthen networks between stakeholders across Colombia and Latin America.
This news is relevant for fire and safety professionals because it highlights the frequency of fire incidents in Colombia.
It shows that structural and forest fires pose persistent risks requiring updated prevention strategies.
It also illustrates the dependence on volunteer fire departments and the importance of training and institutional support.
Finally, the focus on NSR-10 updates and Fire Expo Latam 2025 provides insight into evolving standards and opportunities for regional collaboration.
ANRACI is celebrating 10 years of work in Colombia.
The association represents manufacturers, distributors, installers, laboratories, and professionals in the fire protection sector.
ARANCI has reported that ANRACI has promoted training, regulation, and awareness during this time.
It has highlighted volunteer fire departments as essential partners.
Most fire departments in Colombia are volunteer-based.
Daily averages show between 7 and 10 structural fires in Colombia.
Cali alone records 1.6 fires daily.
Forest fires are a recurring risk in rural areas.
Faulty electrical systems cause around 35 percent of incidents.
Other causes include open flames and lack of protection systems.
Colombia’s NSR-10 standard was introduced in 2010.
ANRACI has called for updates to address lithium batteries and electric mobility.
It has stressed that enforcement and training are needed.
Fire Expo Latam 2025 will take place in Medellín.
The event will showcase equipment and regulatory discussions.
ARANCI has said the expo aims to connect stakeholders and increase awareness.
