Flame Fighters: Costa Rica’s Quick Response Team Saves Lomas Barbudal Reserve from Raging Wildfire

In a dramatic showcase of agility and expertise, Costa Rica’s bravest have once again proven that not all heroes wear capes—some wear fireproof suits. This week, the SINAC firefighters, Costa Rica’s unsung heroes, quickly tamed a wildfire that threatened the ecological treasure trove of Lomas Barbudal Biological Reserve. It’s a tale of triumph, quick thinking, and how a bit of satellite savvy can save the day.

On February 7th, eyes in the sky (courtesy of SINAC’s 2024 Permanent Alert initiative) spotted an unwelcome glow within the reserve. With conditions as dry as a stand-up comedian on a good night and winds as eager to spread gossip as a wildfire, the race was on. The Arenal Tempisque Conservation Area (ACAT) response team was mobilized faster than you can say “fire extinguisher.”

Jose Aguilar, an ACAT forest firefighter and part-time flame whisperer, shared the inside scoop. “We hit the ground running, creating firebreaks faster than a diet breaks at a buffet.” Eight firefighters, armed with nothing but their wits and some pretty hefty firefighting gear, faced the flames head-on.

The fire scorched about 40 hectares of land, a number that could have been much higher had it not been for the team’s prompt response. The reserve, known for its biodiversity, faced a significant threat, but thanks to the rapid action, the damage was contained quicker than a rumor in a small town.

Minister of Environment and Energy, Franz Tattenbach, underscored the importance of such swift actions. “Forest fires are the party crashers of the ecological world, and it’s our job to show them the door as quickly as possible.” SINAC’s early alert system and a team of seasoned firefighters ensured the party didn’t last long this time.

In light of the 2024 fire season, SINAC is doubling down on prevention, readying firebreaks, and keeping a close eye on risk factors across Costa Rica’s conservation areas. They’re even putting a pause on agricultural burning permits when the fire risk is high, proving that prevention is indeed better than cure.

The public is reminded to play it safe with fire, especially during the bone-dry season. After all, it takes a village to prevent a forest fire—or at least a country as committed as Costa Rica. With the stakes high and the temperatures higher, the focus is on protecting the nation’s green gold from the threat of wildfires.

As Costa Rica braces for more dry and dicey conditions, SINAC, together with MINAE, is gearing up to protect its natural heritage. With a combination of cutting-edge technology, ironclad protocols, and a team that’s ready to roll at the first sign of smoke, the message is clear: Costa Rica’s treasures are in safe hands.