Alhama de Murcia and Vigo launch new forest‑fire surveillance programmes

The municipality of Alhama de Murcia unveiled a forest‑fire surveillance operation as part of the regional INFOMUR 2026 plan. From 1 June to 30 September, the local Civil Protection volunteers will patrol the municipal woods daily, equipped with fire‑resistant gear, extinguishing backpacks, hand tools and motor‑saws. The service is designed for early detection, rapid first response within thirty minutes, and support for professional emergency services. "Prevention remains the most effective tool against forest fires," said Councillor Antonio García.

In the province of Vigo, the Mancomunidad de Montes de Vigo announced the "Ollos no Monte Vigo" community‑watch network on 17 June. Building on a 2025 pilot, the initiative involves 14 mountain communities and over 40 staff members, aiming to strengthen monitoring in peri‑urban forest areas that are prone to fire, especially after the October 2017 blazes. The program promotes training, auto‑protection, early detection and coordinated response to any fire incidents.

Both programmes emphasize preventive patrols, community involvement and faster intervention to protect Spain’s forested landscapes during the high‑risk summer season.