The extent of disaster damage can only be reduced as much as one is prepared.
On December 26, Yangsan City in South Gyeongsang Province conducted a field-oriented wildfire suppression drill in Sangbuk-myeon to prepare for potential wildfire outbreaks.
Yangsan City conducted a fire suppression drill simulating a real situation to strengthen its wildfire response capabilities. Photo by Yangsan City
This drill was carried out to strengthen the ability to respond swiftly and systematically in the event of a wildfire.
More than 30 members of the wildfire prevention and suppression team participated in the drill. It was conducted in a realistic manner by mobilizing all available wildfire suppression equipment, simulating an actual wildfire situation.
In particular, the response system was also tested by using drones to monitor the wildfire outbreak location and the spread path in real time, thereby enhancing practical suppression capabilities.
The drill proceeded in the following order: wildfire outbreak notification, initial suppression and personnel deployment, aerial surveillance using drones, and mop-up and post-incident inspection. The step-by-step response procedures were reviewed to reinforce a rapid response system, with a focus on cultivating practical skills to secure the initial golden time in real situations.
Currently, the city operates a total of 149 wildfire prevention personnel, including specialized suppression teams and wildfire monitors. They are at the forefront of forest protection by patrolling vulnerable areas, cracking down on illegal burning, and inspecting risk factors to prevent wildfires.
Kim Cheolhwan, Director of the Forestry Division, stated, "Wildfires require an all-out response in the early stages, and the risk of escalation is high when weather or terrain conditions are unfavorable. We focused on these points during the drill. Through repeated training and thorough preparation, we will do our utmost to protect the forests of Yangsan City from wildfires."
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