Tenerife Conducts Emergency Drills to Prepare for Upcoming Forest Fire Season

Managing forest fires is a top priority in the Canary Islands, where the rugged landscape and hot summer weather require a highly skilled and technical response. To ensure they are ready for the upcoming fire season, the Cabildo de Tenerife recently held a simulation exercise in the Las Calderetas area of El Sauzal.

These drills are vital for testing how different agencies work together, from the moment a fire is detected to the final investigation of its cause. The exercise allowed officials to test the Cecopin command chain and practice mobilizing the teams and equipment needed for the summer. Success in fighting forest fires depends on more than just gear; it relies on clear communication between ground crews, air units, the Civil Guard, the military, and other emergency services.

For the 2026 season, the island has a strong response plan in place. This includes over 700 Cabildo staff members, supported by "Operation Prometeo," which will add nearly 3,000 workdays of reinforcement between July and September. This team is backed by two helicopters on constant standby, advanced surveillance technology, and a 24-hour communications network. President Rosa Dávila and Councilor Blanca Pérez attended the drill, highlighting how seriously the administration takes fire safety in an environment where dry conditions make rapid response essential.

Operational managers emphasize that these drills keep protocols "well-oiled." Coordination is key not only to putting out fires but also to securing areas for later investigation. By conducting these exercises, the Cabildo aims to minimize mistakes, ensuring that small outbreaks do not turn into major disasters and keeping residents in forest areas safe.