Brazilian states roll out fire‑risk awareness statue and volunteer brigades

The Military Fire Corps of Mato Grosso (CBMMT) installed a three‑metre‑high capybara statue that displays a plaque indicating current forest‑fire risk levels, from low to extreme. The monument, unveiled during the State's Forest Fire Prevention Week, is part of a partnership with the energy company Energisa Mato Grosso and aims to educate rural residents and motorists about the heightened danger during the upcoming dry season, which is expected to be intensified by El Niño conditions.

Separately, the Military Fire Corps of Tocantins (CBMTO) opened a simplified selection process for 188 volunteer fire‑brigade positions to operate during the 2026 dry season. Applicants aged 18‑50 must pass a physical test and will receive a 40‑hour training course in late June. Selected volunteers will receive a stipend of R$ 180 per 12‑hour shift and will assist in preventing and combating forest fires across multiple municipalities, strengthening the state’s emergency response capacity.