A team of 25 volunteers per community has been assigned to coordinate with organizations involved to monitor for forest fires and hot spots.
Chiang Mai Deputy Governor Phuthipong Sirimart, as the chairman of the working committee at the Pollution Control Department, said that all respective districts should collaborate and monitor forest fires and stop them from the source before the air gets more polluted. The monitoring should take place 24 hours and be on the look out to nearby districts as well, and to report of any forest fires or hotspots discovered. Village chiefs and community leaders must also make public announcements to request cooperation and give warnings to residents.
Additionally, a team of 25 volunteers per community should be established to coordinate with organizations involved as well as monitor the hotspots. This way injuries and potential damage or casualties can be prevented.
“We should all be aware of what causes fires and put them out immediately if seen or contact authorities if the situation is out of hand. The air quality is poor as usual, due to forest and crop burning and that can result in major health issues if not looked into. We are urging all residents to take part as being an eye of the community and to put out or report of any forest fires to the Forestry Department or other involved. For more details, contact Chiang Mai City Hall at 053-112-236” said the deputy governor.
Col. Sretapol Khethem, Deputy Commander of Military Circle 33 chaired a training program to put out forest fires at Phu Ping Palace where locals were taught fire prevention strategies.
