'Guard the Rainforest 2026' comprehensive forest fire suppression drill held in Qiongzhong

The "Guard the Rainforest 2026" comprehensive forest fire suppression drill took place on November 9 in Qiongzhong. It was conducted under the guidance of the Hainan Provincial Department of Forestry, the Hainan Provincial Department of Emergency Management, and the Hainan Provincial Fire and Rescue Corps. The drill was jointly hosted by the Administration of Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park and the People's Government of Qiongzhong Li and Miao Autonomous County.

The drill in action on Nov. 9, 2026. (People's Daily Online/Meng Fansheng)

The drill was designed to improve the response to severe forest fires. It aimed to strengthen cooperation between the national park authority and local governments on fire prevention and control, improves coordination across branches and departments, and help protect the environment of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

The drill in action on Nov. 9, 2026. (People's Daily Online/Meng Fansheng)

The drill simulated a rapidly spreading fire sparked by burning dry leaves, testing the response system from Level IV to Level II emergency alerts. Firefighters worked through more than 40 operational scenarios in four main stages: early warning & prevention, initial response, local response and joint suppression. Teams used technology such as reconnaissance drones and emergency communications equipment to help contain and extinguish the simulated fire in tropical rainforest terrain.

The drill in action on Nov. 9, 2026. (People's Daily Online/Meng Fansheng)

Chen Kang, secretary of the party leadership group and director-general of the Administration of Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, said: "This drill was well organised. All teams worked together to complete the mission." Looking ahead, Chen emphasised the need to enhance fire-monitoring technologies, raise public awareness, and tighten controls on open burning in rural areas to prevent future fires.

Lu Yonghui, deputy chief executive of the People's Government of Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County, said the drill effectively tested command and response strategies in mountainous areas. "Although we have maintained a zero-fire record during the current ban, we cannot let our guard down," Lu said, urging teams to stay alert to protect the rainforest.

The national park administration plans to hold these joint drills regularly to improve coordination during emergencies and better protect the region's forests.