une manœuvre de simulation à Skikda et à Jijel (DGPC)
Summary of the Simulation Exercise Organized by the General Directorate of Civil Protection in Algeria
On Sunday, the General Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC) is set to conduct a major simulation exercise in Skikda and Jijel, designed to evaluate the effectiveness of resources allocated for combating forest fires during high-risk periods. This initiative is part of the country’s broader strategy to enhance its national framework for preventing and handling fire outbreaks.
According to a DGPC announcement, the simulation will incorporate both ground and aerial resources to assess the readiness, intersectoral coordination, and overall effectiveness of the measures in place to respond to forest fires. The exercise will take place in the Ouled Attia region of Skikda and El Milia in Jijel, with notable attendance from key officials, including the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Regional Planning, as well as Colonel Boualem Bourrelaf, the DGPC’s Director General.
A diverse range of personnel and resources from various national institutions will be involved in this comprehensive drill, including specialized units from the DGPC, the National Popular Army, the National Gendarmerie, the National Police, the General Directorate of Forests, and local authorities. This multi-agency approach is crucial for ensuring an effective response during emergencies.
The simulation scenario will feature a staged outbreak of fire in a forested area. This will trigger the immediate deployment of ground resources such as response vehicles, water tankers, and mobile columns, along with aerial support including drones, helicopters, and water bomber planes. Additionally, reconnaissance, securing inhabited zones, and extinguishing actual flames will be part of the action plan.
The main objectives of this exercise are to assess the rapid intervention capabilities of the involved parties and to strengthen the collaboration and coordination between ground teams and aerial resources. This coordination is vital for ensuring a prompt and effective response in complex emergency situations.
Furthermore, the exercise will also aim to evaluate the functionality and effectiveness of a new digital platform created for better management of forest fire operations. The efficiency of the command chain, alongside emergency alerts, communication protocols, and decision-making processes, will be tested.
In light of these efforts, the DGPC emphasized that combating forest fires is a national priority that requires collective involvement. Citizens are urged to adhere to preventive measures, report any signs of fire, and work actively with the services in case of emergencies.
This simulation is a pivotal component of Algeria’s efforts to enhance preparedness and responsiveness in the face of potential forest fires, a threat that becomes especially pronounced during specific seasons. By engaging various institutions and utilizing modern technology, the DGPC aims to cultivate a proactive culture of fire prevention and response among both authorities and the public.
