Earlier in October 2025, the Paraguayan Navy held a graduation ceremony for sixty new forest firefighters at the Marine Infantry Command. This is an addition to the trained military troops in combating forest fires, raising the figure to 800. The event was a significant achievement in deepening the country’s capacity to handle environmental emergencies.
The Basic Techniques in Forest Fire Control and First Aid course was taught by specialists from the National Emergency Secretariat’s (SEN) Forest Brigade. The instruction was both theory and practice, with emphasis on security precautions, fire containment techniques, and first-aid treatment. This comprehensive training aims to equip every firefighter to act efficiently and safely during emergency events.
Forest Firefighters’ commitment to training
During the ceremony, the Minister of National Defence, Óscar González, highlighted the importance of joint work. He noted that cooperation is key to strengthening the Navy’s operational capacity. He described the training as “vital,” emphasising that it equips personnel with the right mindset. Also, the course provides techniques to act efficiently without endangering their own lives. González reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to providing the Armed Forces with essential tools to face natural fire emergencies.
He also announced that future graduates from the Francisco Solano López Military Academy in Capiatá and the Military College of Non-Commissioned Officers in Encarnación will receive similar training. This expansion will further consolidate Paraguay’s national fire response network, ensuring preparedness in both rural and urban areas.
A nationwide effort for prevention and response
Arsenio Zárate, Minister of the National Emergency Secretariat, stressed that the initiative extends beyond the Armed Forces.
“We are working with educational institutions in both the capital and the interior of the country,” Zárate said. “Our objective is to enhance prevention. To ensure that, when there is a need, our personnel are well trained and can respond to forest fires”.
Through these continuous efforts, Paraguay reaffirms its dedication to environmental protection, public safety, and national resilience in the face of increasing climate-related challenges.
