The Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service is conducting an international training on Forest Fire Prevention and Rapid Response from September 10 to 13 at the Urtsadzor Eco-Center.

More than 40 representatives from the Rescue Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Crisis Management National Academy under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Environment and other relevant state bodies and agencies are participated.

"Such events are highly important to me because fire prevention measures worldwide are effective due to collaborative efforts", says Ruben Khachatryan, Founder and Director of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets.

Through both theoretical and practical components of the training, participants will gain insight into the American system for firefighting and emergency cases.

"The goal is to enhance the capabilities of the training participants in the field of disaster management. Initially, we focus on developing technical skills by introducing leading methods and approaches for organizing rescue operations in the rear and flanks, fire management and rapid response. Afterward, we solidify theoretical knowledge through practical exercises", according to Matt Wills, Emergency Management Coordinator - Europe-Eurasia. U.S. Forest Service.

The program includes topics related to the fundamental concepts of firefighting in wildland and the principles of emergency cases management systems. Special attention was given to methodologies for managing personnel and resources, which will enable effective handling of complex situations and firefighting.

"Such training sessions are very important because, in addition to gaining new knowledge and developing new skills, the exchange of experience is crucial", noted a lecturer at the  Crisis Management National Academy Andranik Khachatryan.

During the practical phase, participants engage in a "Sand Table Exercise," where they modeled real fire scenarios and developed strategies for fire prevention.

"Using computer modeling tables, we localize the preferred area on the map, display the scope, timeline and intensity of fire outbreaks and spread. In addition to modeling, we also emphasize analyzing past fires, which helps us understand the mechanisms and extent of their spread, contributing to more adaptable approaches in prevention efforts", Stephen Graydon, Senior Specialist in Training and Operations explained.

Participants then apply the knowledge gained during field exercises. Getting familiar with the terrain and the special techniques used, they improve their professional skills through various exercises.

"In the framework of experience exchange, our American counterparts will demonstrate the fire suppression methods used in their country, utilizing light hand tools, while our firefighters and rescuers will showcase their skills", said the Senior Instructor for Fire and Rescue Training at the Rescue Forces Department of Rescue Service Samvel Ayvazyan.

Participants will engage in simulation exercises in artificially created fire scenarios, applying the knowledge acquired during the training.

At the end of the training, participants will receive certificates.