INCÊNDIOS DE 1986 E 1987 NOS PARQUES ESTADUAIS DO INSTITUTO FLORESTAL DE SÃO PAULO

Abstract

This paper presents a diagnosis about wildfire occurrences during 1986 and 1987 on state parks network of São Paulo Forestry Institute. They were recorded 18 wildfires from June to September in 1986 and from June to November in 1987, that burned 197.66 hectares. Results showed a mathematical correlation between burned area (y) and duration offire (x), by means of a first: degree equation, as follows: y = 0.04058167x- 2.16985478 ............. (1). There was also mathematical correlation between burned area (y) and beginning of direct attack (x), according a exponential logarithmical model. y - 0.00915 e 1.54282x.............(2). There was no mathematical association between duration of fire and the time of beginning direct attack. Results showed no mathematical correlation between burned area and delay of fire and fire fighting personnel. Grassland and native forests have been the kinds of vegetation most affected by fire. Arson was the major fire cause in state forests, followed by debris burning. On littoral and mountain regions were concentrated major fire damage. Direct attack with hand toais and lack of equipment characterized fire-fighting on state forests in São Paulo Forestry Institute during the years of 1986 and 1987. Considering that specific fire-fighting equipments were not provided during twelve years after this study, it is supposed that the present state of fire defense has worsened. Personnel reduction and aging remaining workers are also factors that aggravate the forest fire protection program. This current situation makes evident the vital importance of adoption of efficient fire defense preventive measures.