Winter is the perfect time to prepare for summer wildfires. This apparent paradox has an unyielding logic: effective prevention requires time, planning, and coordinated work among all stakeholders in the territory.
As president ofPymeMad Biobíoand leader of theBiobío Wood Regional Strategic Program, I have had the privilege of actively participating, alongside Conaf, Senapred, Corma, Firefighters, ministries, and municipalities, in the development of the Guide for Home Preparation Against Wildfires. This collaborative work demonstrates that protecting our communities requires the commitment and knowledge of all sectors.
Local presence, national impact
In our Biobío region, we understand that timber SMEs are key players in prevention. They are present in territories where forests and communities coexist, they know every corner of the land, and they maintain close ties with neighbors. That is why, from PymeMad, we promote that our companies contribute in:
- Preventive education: Sharing technical knowledge about forest management
- Protection infrastructure: Collaborating on firebreaks and safety zones
- Innovation: Developing timber products with fire-retardant treatments
- Early surveillance: Acting as sentinels in risk zones
Technical knowledge that saves lives
Experience has taught us that embers can travel kilometers, thermal radiation affects up to 60 meters from the fire front, and a cleared 10-meter perimeter zone can make the difference between destruction and survival. This technical knowledge must translate into concrete actions in every home and community.
A call to collective action
From PymeMad, we call on all regions of the country: the time to act is now. Building fire-resilient territories requires the joint work of companies, authorities, and neighbors. As a guild, we are committed to leading by example, sharing knowledge and resources to protect what matters most: our communities and our forest heritage.