Residents assist firefighters in Quito forest fires threatening homes

Residents of Quito, Ecuador, have begun assisting municipal firefighters as a series of forest fires encroach on the city’s suburban neighborhoods. The blazes, ignited by a combination of prolonged drought and strong winds, have spread across the foothills surrounding the capital, prompting the fire department to request civilian volunteers to help contain the flames and protect homes. Officials from the Quito Fire Brigade reported that more than 150 hectares have been affected, with several families evacuated from the districts of Pomasqui and Calderón as a precautionary measure.

Authorities continue to coordinate aerial water drops, ground crews, and the newly organized community response teams to suppress the fires and prevent further damage. The Ministry of Environment has deployed additional resources, including fire retardant chemicals and temporary shelters for displaced residents. While the situation remains fluid, officials indicated that containment efforts are progressing and that the collaborative approach aims to safeguard both the natural landscape and the populated areas surrounding Quito.