Cusco acquires forest fire-fighting equipment for use at Machu Picchu
Cusco acquires forest fire-fighting equipment for use at Machu Picchu
16 March 2011
published by www.livinginperu.com
Peru — Cuscos regional culture agency recently acquired safety equipment designed to fight forest fires for use at Machu Picchu, valued at S/. 446,830, according to Andina.
The equipment consists of 30 hoses, two large water tanks, boots, goggles, gloves and 120 fireman helmets, as well as 30 headlamps and 60 fireproof blankets. It also includes 40 backpacks with supplies, 20 multi-purpose tools, 120 forest fireman blankets, 60 forest rakes, and 120 forest fireman suits.
Juan Julio García Rivas, Cuscos regional director of culture, said that his agency made the purchases during the litigation process no. 0012, in accordance with the law of state transactions and government regulations.
Fernando Astete, director of the Machu Picchu archaeological park, emphasized that with this equipment, firemen will be able to ward off threats of forest fire much more efficiently.
He explained that the fireproof blankets contain a flame redardant, and that in a true blaze they could be used by fire personnel for their bodily protection. The backpacks are a type of portable extinguisher to fight forest fires.