Wildfire simulation to test emergency coordination in Moya
The Canary Islands government is preparing a wildfire simulation in the municipality of Moya, Gran Canaria, for Wednesday 29 April, preceded by several days of activities starting on 27 April. The aim is to strengthen public prevention awareness and cooperation between public administrations in emergency situations, while checking that protocols function correctly.
Coordinated response to a level 2 fire scenario
This exercise will be coordinated by the Regional Ministry of Territorial Policy, Territorial Cohesion and Water, in collaboration with the Cabildo of Gran Canaria and Moya Town Hall. It will test the activation of protocols under the Canary Islands Special Civil Protection and Emergency Plan for Wildfires (INFOCA) in a simulated level 2 fire, where responsibility shifts from the island corporation to the regional administration. The objective, according to a press release from the regional ministry, is to foster inter-administrative cooperation and communication flows between the various responding agencies to guarantee the protection of all citizens during critical situations.
Drill ignites in El Pagador ravine on Wednesday morning
The declaration of the wildfire simulation, organised through the Directorate General of Emergencies, will have its initial ignition point in a ravine in the El Pagador area on Wednesday 29 April from 09:30 local time. This drill will serve as the culmination of a three-day programme of educational activities.
Fernando Figuereo, Director General of Emergencies, noted that this simulation allows authorities to verify that protocols work and that public bodies respond in a coordinated manner to a real emergency, particularly in a level 2 scenario as outlined by INFOCA. “But above all,” he added, “it is an opportunity to involve the public: the best tool against wildfires is an informed and prepared population.” He stated that they want residents of the municipality to know how to act, how to prevent risks, and how to cooperate with emergency services, because “protecting our territory is a shared responsibility that begins in every home.”
Public talks and school activities ahead of the drill
The programme of events begins on the evening of Monday 27 April at the Casa de la Cultura, with self-protection talks delivered by technical staff from the Directorate General, the 112 Coordination Centre for Security and Emergencies (CECOES), the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, and the local council. These sessions, aimed at Moya residents, will analyse wildfire behaviour and provide recommendations for action in different circumstances, with an emphasis on self-protection and prevention measures.
On Tuesday 28 April, from 08:30 local time, an exhibition of regional, island, local, and state emergency equipment will be set up at Pico Lomito Park. School students from primary to secondary level will visit in turns for guided explanations of the vehicles and gear.
Other pupils will take part in workshops on wildfire prevention and response on Wednesday 29 April, the same day as the simulation drill itself.
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