Tenerife to Conduct Large-Scale Wildfire Evacuation Drill in La Guancha

Managing the areas where forests meet residential neighborhoods has become the top civil security challenge in the Canary Islands. To address this, the Tenerife Island Council (Cabildo de Tenerife) is holding a field exercise in La Guancha on May 15. The goal is to test both technical operations and evacuation plans in these high-risk zones, where the proximity of homes to vegetation makes fire threats particularly dangerous.

This drill is part of the Canary Islands’ official forest fire emergency plan (INFOCA). It is more than just a routine training session; it aims to coordinate firefighting efforts with the logistics of moving residents and pets to local shelters. The exercise will involve local, regional, and state teams, focusing on how the Island Operational Coordination Center (CECOPIN) and the Advanced Command Post (PMA) work together to make decisions under pressure.

The Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies stated that the drill will focus on two main areas: tactical responses on the ground and strategic crisis management. Councilor Blanca Pérez and Security Director Iván Martín noted that the exercise is designed to test communication and reaction times before the high-risk summer season begins.

Beyond testing emergency teams like the BRIFOR unit, the Cabildo hopes this day will encourage residents to take an active role in their own safety. By focusing on protecting property and clearly communicating safety guidelines, the council aims to better prepare the island for the unique challenges posed by its terrain and the close proximity of homes to forest areas.