Firefighters from the Metropolitan Region of Chile took part in a participatory safety meeting in Melipilla, focusing on reinforcing procedures for forest fire response and promoting self-care practices.
According to CONAF, the training session brought together operational brigades and section heads from the Forest Fire Protection Department for hands-on activities, including tool use, hose handling in critical conditions, and safe chainsaw operations.
The National Forestry Corporation’s Regional Director for the Metropolitan Region, Rodrigo Illesca, said that accidents among firefighters have decreased.
Rodrigo Illesca stated: “We have lowered the accident rate among our firefighters thanks to the work and commitment of the entire Forest Fire Protection Department and the Risk Prevention section, which are deployed in both the Melipilla and Chacabuco Districts, taking into account that self-care is the most important thing.”
The Forest Fire Protection Department head, Andrés Benedetto, reiterated the importance of maintaining safety protocols during emergencies.
Andrés Benedetto said: “I’m proud to say that, thanks to the responsible leadership of those who lead our brigades, accidents haven’t increased at the same rate as emergencies.”
Andrés Benedetto added: “But we should never be complacent; there’s always room for improvement, because your physical integrity is irreplaceable.”
Brigade leaders also voiced support for strict safety practices at both incident sites and brigade bases.
Roble-19 brigade squad leader Javiera Armijo said: “This is evident when we work with the correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and the care we also provide at our brigade bases.”
The head of the risk prevention section of the Forest Fire Protection Department, José Luis Mackray, described the workshop as a space for action, not just discussion.
José Luis Mackray said: “This event was not only a time for meeting and recognition, but also a space where safety was lived and practiced.”
José Luis Mackray added: “As a prevention section, we deeply appreciate that the message came from the brigades themselves, with clarity, commitment, and experience.”
During the event, CONAF recognized seven firefighters for completing more than 15 fire seasons.
According to the agency, the firefighters honored were: Fernando Césped Díaz, Manuel Vera Miralles, Freddy Astorga Carreño, Patricio Torres Rojas, Thomas Contreras Olivares, Luis Rivero Veas, and Juan Márquez Allende.
The head of the Forest Fire Protection Department commented on the importance of each role within the operational chain.
Andrés Benedetto stated: “We are a system; each of us plays a fundamental role. Those on the front lines fighting, at a brigade base ensuring rest, at a detection point, or in logistical operations—everything is equally important.”
Andrés Benedetto added: “Timely warning, good decisions, professionalism, and commitment will help us not only quickly control emergencies but also prevent us from exposing ourselves to risks that could harm our team.”
Firefighters from 13 brigades in Chile’s Metropolitan Region participated in a safety training event organized by CONAF.
The event took place in the Ulmén sector of Melipilla.
Participants engaged in practical sessions on tool handling, hose use, and chainsaw operation.
Rodrigo Illesca, CONAF Regional Director, said firefighter accident rates have declined.
Andrés Benedetto, head of the Forest Fire Protection Department, stressed the need for continued vigilance.
Javiera Armijo of the Roble-19 brigade emphasized proper PPE use and base safety.
José Luis Mackray, head of risk prevention, said the message of safety was delivered by experienced brigade members.
Seven firefighters were recognized for more than 15 seasons of service.
The importance of all operational roles was highlighted by CONAF leadership.
