From Knowledge to Action: AFoCO’s Intensive Training on Forest Fire Suppression

Following the successful opening ceremony of the 3rd Training of Trainers on Forest Fire Suppression (TOTFFS), participants have fully engaged in an intensive learning process. The training sessions were filled with rigorous discussions in the classroom and hands-on exercises in the field, enhancing participants’ practical skills in forest fire response. With in-depth lectures from experts from France, Korea, and Thailand, coupled with the enthusiastic participation of trainees, the learning atmosphere was both dynamic and highly productive. This training is expected to significantly strengthen the forest disaster and forest fire response capacity of AFoCO Member Countries.

Group Photo of Participants in the 3rd Training of Trainers on Forest Fire Suppression at Forest Fire Control Experiment Center

Understanding Fire Behavior: Learning for Practical Application

One of the core modules of the training focused on Fire Analysis and Behavior. Rather than solely relying on theoretical instruction, participants actively explored ways to apply these concepts within their respective forest environments. Using the Fire Behavior Triangle, they systematically analyzed the interaction between fuel, weather, and topography, conducting simulations to predict fire spread patterns under various conditions. This process provided AFoCO Member Countries with valuable opportunities to enhance their ability to forecast and respond to forest fire spread effectively.

Fire Analysis Theory Lecture by Ms. Antonella MASSAIU

As part of their training, participants analyzed forest fire case studies specific to different countries, exchanging insights and developing response strategies. These discussions enabled them to identify common patterns and unique regional challenges, fostering cross-border cooperation in forest fire management.

Participants were also introduced to the Campbell Prediction System (CPS), a key tool used to anticipate fire behavior by analyzing fuel flammability based on terrain alignment and weather conditions. By integrating CPS with GIS mapping, they enhanced their ability to predict fire spread and prioritize suppression efforts, strengthening their capacity for proactive and data-driven fire management.

Campbell Prediction System Lecture by Mr. Benoit DELPAS

Key areas covered in this module included:

Analysis of Fire-Inducing Factors: Evaluating the impact of temperature, humidity, wind speed, and terrain on forest fire behavior while conducting case studies to determine the most critical factors in real-life scenarios. Participants also assessed historical data to recognize seasonal patterns and anticipate high-risk periods in their respective regions.

Fire Spread Pattern Exercises: Reconstructing past forest fire incidents to analyze how fires propagate based on topography, wind, and convection, enabling participants to collaborate on optimal response strategies. By comparing multiple scenarios, they identified strategic intervention points where fire suppression efforts could be most effective.

Forest fire Spread Rate and Intensity Prediction: Using data-driven approaches to calculate fire spread rates and intensity, equipping participants with the skills to make rapid and informed decisions in the field. By integrating technology such as remote sensing and GIS mapping, participants gained hands-on experience in using modern tools for fire monitoring and control.

Weather Forecasting Using Software by Dr. Veerachai Tanpipat

Hands-On Training: Learning Through Experience

Complementing the theoretical sessions, participants engaged in practical exercises designed to develop their field application skills in forest fire response. These exercises provided a deeper understanding of real-world challenges, reinforcing their ability to implement effective strategies in their home countries.

Sand Table Exercise: Participants created simulated mountainous terrain using sand and analyzed how weather factors such as sunlight and wind influence forest fire spread. By working through different forest fire scenarios, teams developed and refined their strategic response plans. This exercise enabled trainees to compare fire behavior under different environmental conditions, helping them build a more structured approach to forest fire response training within AFoCO Member Countries. The collaborative nature of the exercise encouraged participants to think critically and propose innovative solutions to mitigate forest fire risks.

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Sand Table Exercise by Mr. Benoit DELPAS
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Sand Table Exercise by Dr. Veerachai Tanpipat

Cross Fire Exercise: In this simulation, a landscape similar to real mountainous terrain was created, and participants constructed hay stacks to initiate controlled fires. Each team assessed various environmental factors affecting fire spread and formulated protective strategies to safeguard nearby villages and infrastructure. By observing real-time changes in fire behavior, participants sharpened their decision-making skills, a crucial asset for forest fire management. This hands-on experience provided AFoCO Member Countries with practical knowledge to develop more sophisticated forest fire prevention and response strategies. The controlled conditions allowed participants to test different suppression techniques, evaluating their effectiveness under diverse scenarios.

Hay Stack Installation for Cross Fire Exercise
Cross Fire Burning Exercise

Rappelling Exercise: Participants also underwent rappelling training, simulating aerial deployment techniques used by aerial firefighter of Korea Forest Service. Using harnesses and ropes, trainees descended from a 15-meter training tower, practicing swift and controlled landings to access fire-prone areas efficiently. This technique ensures that firefighters can be rapidly and safely deployed to exact forest fire locations, increasing the effectiveness of suppression operations. The exercise emphasized precision, safety, and adaptability in difficult terrain conditions, preparing participants for real-life forest fire response scenarios.

Aerial Firefighters from the Korea Forest Service
(Left: Mr. Choi Jaehan, Right: Mr. Choi Wonsang)
Participants Rappel Training

Compass Navigation Exercise: Recognizing the challenges of navigating dense forest areas where communication equipment may be unreliable, participants practiced using a compass for directional awareness. They learned essential skills such as determining bearings, estimating distances, and orienting themselves without GPS assistance. This training prepared them for real-world scenarios where firefighters must navigate efficiently in remote, fire-prone regions to execute suppression operations effectively.

Distance Measurement Using a Compass by Mr. Benoit DELPAS
Practical Compass Use Exercise in a Forest Setting by Mr. Bruno CHITUSSI

The combination of these exercises not only enhanced technical skills but also fostered teamwork and leadership, preparing trainees to coordinate emergency response efforts effectively. These simulations reflected real-life forest fire challenges, helping participants develop confidence in their ability to manage complex situations in the field.

From Theory to Practice: Strengthening Field-Oriented Training

Through this intensive combination of theoretical learning and practical training, participants went beyond conceptual understanding to develop real-world forest fire response capabilities. By actively engaging in problem-solving exercises and sharing experiences, they collaboratively devised optimal strategies for forest fire management. The ability to learn from past incidents and apply new techniques in a controlled environment ensured that trainees gained comprehensive knowledge applicable to their respective roles.

Cross Fire Exercise Photos Taken Using a Drone from the Korea Forest Service
(Left: Standard Imaging, Right: Thermal Imaging)

As AFoCO continues to enhance its forest disaster response capacity, this training plays a vital role in protecting local communities and promoting sustainable forest management. The skills and knowledge gained will not only improve forest fire response but also support long-term forest conservation through prevention and mitigation strategies. By strengthening their expertise in forest fire suppression, participants are now better equipped to contribute to national and regional disaster management frameworks, increasing AFoCO Member Countries’ resilience to growing forest fire risks.

Group Photo of Participants in the 3rd Training of Trainers on Forest Fire Suppression at Thongphaphum Plantation Forest Site

Submitted by Kiwon Kim, Assistant Program Officer, Capacity-Building and Evaluation Team

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