The Directorate of Environmental Education and Communication organized a new edition of the “Brigadistas con la Gente” program in the Alto Comedero neighborhood, aimed at strengthening vegetation fire prevention and promoting responsible practices within the community, according to a May 17 announcement.
This event was held for the first time in this area of Jujuy’s capital due to a significant number of fires recorded over the past year, especially those related to grassland and waste burning. These incidents pose risks to families, green spaces, and public health.
Approximately 240 students from various educational institutions in Alto Comedero participated. The first group included students from School No. 431 “Isabel la Católica,” School No. 444 “Abanderada de la Patria,” and School No. 451. Later, students from School No. 458, School No. 464 “Provincia de Jujuy,” and Municipal School No. 1 “Marina Vilte” joined the activities.
Ana Cristina RodrÃguez, Secretary of Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, said that the main goal is to raise environmental awareness among children so that preventive messages reach households as well: “We want to create promoters of fire prevention among our children because they also bring this message home and become guardians of our natural resources.” RodrÃguez said.
Representatives from the Provincial Directorate for Vegetation Fires and Environmental Emergencies highlighted the importance of maintaining educational and community work in areas where interface fires are an increasing risk—especially where urban zones border vegetated areas.
Firefighter Barrionuevo also commented on young people’s role: “Today boys and girls have much access to information and participate actively. These talks aim for them to value their environment and share what they learn at home,” Barrionuevo said.
The activities take place during low season as it is considered a strategic period for reinforcing preventive actions before higher-risk months begin—from June through December—characterized by prolonged droughts, north winds, and dry vegetation accumulation.
During these sessions fundamental measures were also reviewed with participants: not carrying out unauthorized burns, avoiding lighting campfires in inappropriate places, and following environmental authorities’ recommendations.