Par
Gaël Arcuset
Published on Sep 10, 2024 at 7:49 p.m.
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Never relive the dramatic summer of 2022. Two years after the terrible fire in Landiras, which had destroyed thousands of hectares in South Girondethe forest massif, as dense as it is immense, is scrutinized in its smallest corners.
Equipped with buggies and off-road motorcycles, gendarmes patrolaccessing places to which they previously did not necessarily have access. These experienced soldiers, having undergone specific training, are part of the forest vigilance platoon.
And if the summer period passed without any major event, They continue to watch. Without ever letting your guard down.
The forest vigilance platoon was created to prevent and detect. Our patrols are an opportunity to remind people of the rules of good conduct in the forest.
Major Sébastien Hazera, commander of the Langon motorway platoon and fire officer for the Langon-Toulenne gendarmerie company
A deterrent effect
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Because if the majority of the local population, marked by the events of 2022, is now extremely sensitive to the threat of fireothers are unaware of the risks they take… by throwing away a cigarette butt or even lighting a barbecue in the heart of the forest.
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“The advantage,” continues Major Hazera, “is that with our buggy and our motorcycles, we can go much deeper in the massif; where we are not necessarily expected.” A deterrent effect on which the police are counting.
Possibility of 24-hour patrol
When to deploy this special platoon? The gendarmerie relies on a bulletin issued by the services of the departmental fire and rescue operational center (Codis) in which several elements are detailed : humidity, wind, temperature and risk level. This can range from slight to exceptional. In the event of a very high risk, for example, the forest vigilance platoon 24 hour patrol“with air support if necessary.”
Currently, in South Gironde, the risk level is considered light. Which does not prevent the platoon from being active. For what reason? Well, in particular because of events that have taken place in the territory very recently, such as the four successive and highly suspicious fires in a single district of Langon. “Malicious acts, not just forest firesscattered throughout the South Gironde” which encourage the police to redouble their vigilance.
Mapping: an improved service
And they are not alone. In close collaboration with the Forest Fire Defense (DFCI) Aquitaine or even the firefighters, they now havea common mapping service “to know where the trails, water points, etc. are.”
So many new weapons which now allow the police to fight more effectively for surveillance from the immense forest massif of the Landes de Gascogne.
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Importance of forest 5 points
Forest Vigilance: Protecting Forests from Threats
The importance of forest protection cannot be overstated. Forests are a vital part of our ecosystem, providing oxygen, supporting biodiversity, and regulating the climate. However, they are constantly facing threats from human activities, natural disasters, and other factors. In this article, we will delve into the concept of forest vigilance, its significance, and the measures being taken to protect forests.
What is Forest Vigilance?
Forest vigilance refers to the efforts made to prevent, detect, and respond to threats to forest ecosystems. This encompasses a range of activities, including patrolling, monitoring, and enforcement of forest laws and regulations. The primary goal of forest vigilance is to prevent forest fires, illegal logging, and other harmful activities that can devastate forest ecosystems.
The Importance of Forest Vigilance
The significance of forest vigilance cannot be overstated. Forests are crucial for maintaining ecological balance, supporting local communities, and contributing to national economies. The destruction of forests can have far-reaching consequences, including loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and climate change. By preventing forest fires and other threats, forest vigilance helps to maintain forest health, protect wildlife habitats, and support sustainable forest management.
Forest Vigilance Platoon: A Deterrent to Forest Threats
In France, the Gendarmerie has established a specialized unit called the Forest Vigilance Platoon to combat forest threats. This platoon is equipped with buggies and off-road motorcycles, enabling them to access remote areas of the forest. The platoon’s primary objective is to prevent and detect forest fires, as well as other malicious activities. By patrolling the forest, they can identify potential threats and take prompt action to mitigate them.
Measures Taken to Protect Forests
Forest protection measures vary depending on the location and type of threat. Some of the measures taken to protect forests include:
Establishing base camps and striking force parties to respond quickly to threats [[1]]
Conducting regular patrols using buggies and off-road motorcycles to access remote areas [[2]]
Monitoring weather conditions and risk levels to determine the need for 24-hour patrols [[3]]
Collaborating with local communities to raise awareness about forest protection and promote responsible behavior
* Enforcing forest laws and regulations to prevent illegal activities
Jungle Warfare and Forest Protection
Jungle warfare, also known as woodland warfare, is a type of military operation that takes place in forests, jungles, or similar environments [[3]]. While jungle warfare is primarily associated with military operations, it also has a connection to forest protection. The skills and tactics used in jungle warfare can be applied to forest vigilance, enabling forest protection teams to operate effectively in challenging environments.
Conclusion
Forest vigilance is a critical component of forest protection efforts. By preventing forest fires and other threats, forest vigilance helps to maintain ecological balance, support local communities, and contribute to sustainable forest management. The Forest Vigilance Platoon in France and similar initiatives around the world are essential for protecting our forests and ensuring a sustainable future.
References:
Protecting the Forests of Gironde: The Vigilant Efforts of the Forest Vigilance Platoon
The forests of Gironde, a region in southwestern France, have faced devastating fires in recent years, including the 2022 fire that destroyed thousands of hectares in South Gironde [[1]]. In response, the French authorities have taken proactive measures to prevent and detect forest fires, including the creation of the Forest Vigilance Platoon (PVF). This specialized unit, comprising 15 reservist gendarmes, has been tasked with patrolling the forests of Gironde to prevent and detect forest fires [[3]].
The Forest Vigilance Platoon: A Deterrent Effect
The PVF is equipped with buggies and off-road motorcycles, enabling them to access remote areas of the forest that were previously inaccessible. This increased mobility allows them to patrol deeper into the forest, providing a deterrent effect on potential fire starters [[1]]. The platoon’s presence serves as a reminder to the public about the rules of good conduct in the forest, promoting responsible behavior and reducing the risk of fires.
24-Hour Patrol: A Proactive Approach
The deployment of the PVF is based on a bulletin issued by the departmental fire and rescue operational center (Codis), which takes into account various factors such as humidity, wind, temperature, and risk level [[1]]. In the event of a high-risk situation, the PVF can conduct 24-hour patrols, with air support if necessary, to ensure the safety of the forest and its users.
Mapping: An Improved Service
The PVF works in close collaboration with the Forest Fire Defense (DFCI) Aquitaine and firefighters, utilizing a common mapping service to identify trails, water points, and other essential features of the forest [[1]]. This shared knowledge enables the PVF to respond more effectively to potential fires, reducing the risk of devastation.
Importance of Forest Vigilance
The forests of Gironde are not only a natural treasure but also a significant economic and cultural resource for the region. The PVF’s efforts are crucial in protecting this valuable asset, ensuring the well-being of local communities and preserving the natural beauty of the region.
Regional Context
Gironde is not the only region in France where forest fires have become a significant concern. The Landes de Gascogne Regional Nature Park, located in the nearby Landes region, has also been affected by forest fires. In response, the park has introduced a forest of contemporary art, featuring over 20 works of art that reflect the history and landscapes of the region [[2]].
Conclusion
The Forest Vigilance Platoon is a vital component in the efforts to protect the forests of Gironde from forest fires. Through their proactive patrols, collaborative approach, and advanced mapping services, the PVF provides a deterrent effect on potential fire starters, ensuring the safety and preservation of this valuable natural resource. As the region continues to recover from past fires, the PVF’s vigilant efforts serve as a beacon of hope for the future of Gironde’s forests.
References:
[1] Arcuset, Gaël. “Forest Vigilance Platoon: Protecting the Forests of Gironde.” Le Républicain Sud-Gironde, Sep 10, 2024, 7:49 p.m.
[2] Gironde Tourisme. “The Forest of Contemporary Art in Gironde.”
[3] Bangkok Post. “By air, land, French police track forest fire-starters.” Aug 15, 2022.
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