A continuous improvement approach to identify the causes of forest fires and anticipate risks.
Friday, December 6, the local rescue center hosted specialized training aimed at strengthening and perfecting the skills of the RCI interservice cell (Research into the causes of forest fires). This event brought together 18 experts from various organizations: Sdis (departmental fire and rescue service) from Aude and Ariège; ONF (National Forestry Office); gendarmerie and DDTM (Departmental Directorate of Territories and the Sea).
Under the coordination of Jean-Paul Baylac, referent of the RCI unit of Aude, the day was part of a continuous improvement approach to identify the causes of forest fires and anticipate the risks.
A look back at the 2024 forest fire campaign
The training began with an assessment of the 2024 summer season, marked by 61 investigations carried out into fires. These investigations, crucial for targeting preventive actions, make it possible to understand the ignition mechanisms, whether accidental or deliberate.
Practical exercises in a natural environment
The participants then visited several sites around Trèbes that had recently suffered fires. In the field, they worked together to analyze material evidence and reconstruct the circumstances of the fire’s outbreak. This interdisciplinary approach allows for in-depth expertise, which is essential to prevent recurrences.
A multidisciplinary synergy in the service of security
The objective of the RCI unit is to combine the specific skills of each body. The firefighters for their knowledge of fire behavior, the ONF for its forestry expertise, the gendarmerie for its investigation capabilities, the DDTM for its role in land planning.
This coordination aims to react quickly in the event of weak signals, to target the causes and to better direct prevention actions.
Commander Gregory Macquart, head of the West territorial group, was present alongside Olivier Signoles, lieutenant and head of the Trebéen rescue center, as well as the mayor of the town to open this training day. A presence which underlined the importance given to this mission in the fight against forest fires, a recurring threat in the region.
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