Coimbra region boosts fire‑fighting resources for peak summer fire season

The Região de Coimbra has deployed a reinforced fire‑fighting device for the most critical phase of the summer, known as Phase Delta, covering July 1 to September 30. The plan mobilises 775 personnel—including 514 firefighters—supported by 178 vehicles, three attack helicopters and two additional helicopters from June 1, as well as two medium‑size bomber aircraft.

The deployment also adds four new brush‑clearing machines, a command‑and‑communications vehicle, and a drone for monitoring and operational support. The system, called the Special Rural Fire‑Fighting Device (DECIR), integrates municipal civil‑protection services and features upgraded communications, including Starlink and the national emergency radio network. Authorities urge residents in the most vulnerable municipalities—Figueira da Foz, Soure, Montemor‑o‑Velho, Penela, Miranda do Corvo and Pampilhosa da Serra—to exercise extreme caution to prevent ignitions during dry thunderstorm conditions.