The state government of São Paulo is stepping up its fire-fighting operations in the state’s interior by setting up an outpost in Ribeirão Preto. According to monitoring by the Civil Defense Emergency Management Center (CGE), 21 cities are facing active fire outbreaks. In total, 46 monitored municipalities are on high alert for fires.
Governor Tarcísio de Freitas was present at the installation of the outpost at the Ribeirão Preto Military Police Aviation Base. According to Freitas, the unit will operate in an integrated manner with the crisis office set up at the CGE to monitor and control the situation. “Our task force has more than 7,000 professionals and volunteers, as well as helicopters, drones and vehicles to fight the fire and provide guidance to the population,” said the governor on social media.
The action takes place throughout the weekend and is part of Operation SP Sem Fogo. The office has technicians from the State Civil Defense and the secretariats of Public Security (SSP), Agriculture and Supply and Environment, Infrastructure and Logistics (Semil).
“Forest fires can affect large areas of natural vegetation. With gusts of wind, the fire can spread quickly. The fires emit dense and toxic smoke that harms the environment and human health, causing problems to the respiratory system and cardiovascular disorders. Two employees of a plant in Urupês died this Friday (23) trying to fight a fire,” said the state government in a statement.
Highways
According to government warnings, state and concession highways are being closed, ranging from total to partial, impacting traffic in several regions. “It is important that drivers avoid these routes until things return to normal and that they seek safe alternatives for their journeys. In addition, it is essential that everyone remains alert to constant updates on traffic conditions monitored in real time by emergency teams and concessionaires responsible.”
Drivers are advised to pay extra attention on all highways and avoid driving through areas with smoke and fire. If this is impossible, drivers should reduce their speed, keep their headlights on low beam and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
For the general population, the recommendation is that when seeing a fire or smoke of great intensity, leave the area immediately and take shelter, in addition to immediately informing the Fire Department (193) and Civil Defense (199).
