During the launch of Fire Prevention Week 2024, Rosa Dávila, President of the Tenerife Island Council, called on citizens to step up as the “civilian firefighters of Tenerife” in dealing with emergency situations such as fires that pose risks to lives, property, and nature.
Dávila emphasized the need for prevention and preparedness by stating that the fight against fires in Tenerife has seen an unparalleled mobilisation of resources and manpower. A key aspect of this mobilisation is to educate and train residents of Tenerife to respond promptly and effectively in emergencies. The Fire Prevention Week initiative will be rolled out across the 21 municipalities of the island that are part of the Tenerife Firefighters Consortium, in collaboration with the Tenerife Fire Prevention and Extinction and Rescue Consortium, the Maphre Foundation, and the Professional Association of Firefighters (APTB).
She stressed on the importance of raising awareness and preparedness among all age groups in society. Dávila highlighted the significance of the fire prevention campaign that will encompass various municipalities on the Island.
The awareness campaign will also include educational activities focusing on preventing risks related to home, sports, leisure, and road accidents. Dávila pointed out that domestic fires pose a significant threat to lives and property and stressed the vital role of prevention in safeguarding individuals and communities.
Fire Prevention Week kick-started in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and will be extended to other municipalities such as La Laguna, El Rosario, Arafo, Candelaria, Güímar, Arico, Granadilla, San Miguel, Adeje, Arona, Guía de Isora, Icod de los Vinos, La Guancha, and Los Realejos. The initiative will further continue its outreach in La Orotava, Puerto de la Cruz, El Sauzal, Tacoronte, Garachico, and Tegueste. In 2025, the program will be extended to the remaining 10 municipalities under the Firefighters Consortium.
Gladis de León, the Councillor for Security and Emergencies of the City Council, expressed gratitude for starting the event in Santa Cruz – specifically on the esplanade of Avenida Marítima.