The University of Concepción in Chile has consolidated its robust forest fire prevention system with a strategy that combines technology, environmental management, citizen participation and institutional coordination.
The model, promoted by the Department of Services (DirSer), is based on a comprehensive approach that promotes shared responsibility and preventive education both on and off campus.
Through a systematic plan, the University of California (UdeC) has coordinated efforts with various public entities, local communities and internal teams to significantly reduce the risks associated with fires, especially in urban-wildland interface areas.
One indicator of the impact of this strategy is the fact that, by the end of the 2024-2025 season, the University has surpassed 1,170 accident-free days in the areas under university management.
The Director of Services, Evelyn Vásquez Salazar, explained that this model stems from a long institutional history of prevention, which has been systematized in recent years, sharing: “We have formalized effective protocols and communication channels with our community and external stakeholders.
“This prevention network not only improves emergency response but also strengthens the connection with the community.”
Among the program’s key features are more than twelve awareness-raising activities developed in conjunction with the Faculty of Forestry Sciences, Conaf (National Forestry Commission), the Fire Department, the Carabineros (National Police), the Municipality of Concepción and neighborhood organizations, in addition to active participation in information fairs and educational workshops.
From an operational perspective, Juan Emilio Espinoza Carvajal, Head of Forest Properties and Management at DirSer, detailed the program’s progress saying: “The forestry brigade carried out more than 1,000 preventive rounds and 95 control procedures.
“While at the technological level, the Alpha Fire application was implemented , developed internally to alert and reduce response times to fires.”
This app provides critical real-time information, such as building risks, the location of water sources and weather data, directly connecting with the Fire Department and CONAF to optimize response strategies.
Additionally, the capacity of the early detection system was doubled with robotic cameras powered by artificial intelligence, also benefiting the neighboring community of Concepción.
In the environmental field, the University has invested in sustainable solutions, highlighting the “goat brigade ,” an innovative rotational grazing system that eliminated more than 10 tons of combustible vegetation.
This initiative is complemented by traditional practices such as firebreaks and the periodic maintenance of more than 200,000 square meters of green areas.
According to Espinoza, new challenges and opportunities for improvement have continued to emerge: “We are working on building additional water reservoirs and remodeling our helibase to improve response capacity.”
Plans are also underway to intensify drills and training to maintain the high standards achieved. With a replicable model that integrates education, technology and community, the UdeC not only seeks to protect its natural and human heritage, but also actively contribute to creating more resilient environments in the face of climate change.
University of Concepción has consolidated its robust forest fire prevention system with support from the the University of California who have coordinated plans through a systemic plan.
