MANG will have a flight to Paraguay in late June, and will be collecting surplus Bunker Gear and FF hand tools. They are seeking the support of the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts (FCAM) Members in hopes of finding some additional equipment. Below is a summary of the effort and the appropriate contact person if you wish to donate.
Please contact SSG Brian Kilgore at brian.kilgore.mil@army.nil, or call 339-202-3917 if you have equipment to donate to coordinate the pick up.
Massachusetts State Partnership Program – Paraguay
Firefighter Support Initiative
Overview:
Since 2001, Massachusetts and Paraguay have partnered under the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program (SPP), which strengthens partner nation capabilities through consistent military and civilian cooperation. Over the years, Massachusetts has supported Paraguay in firefighting, engineering, medical services, aviation, and clean water project. . Current efforts focus on securing serviceable bunker gear, personal protective equipment (PPE), hand tools, hoses, and adapters. The Massachusetts SPP will oversee the coordination, transport, and distribution of these resources to Paraguayan recipients. The program is actively collaborating with Paraguay’s National Emergency Secretariat (SEN), fire brigades, military forces, and private sector operational personnel to build comprehensive firefighting capabilities across wildland, aviation, and urban domains.
Current Challenge:
Paraguay’s firefighting force is largely regional and mostly military, resulting in significant disparities in equipment and capability across departments. Most departments lack the resources to procure and maintain essential firefighting equipment.
Strategic Focus:
The Massachusetts SPP is working to enhance Paraguay’s firefighting effectiveness by:
- Facilitating the donation of serviceable, bunker gear, PPE, and hand tools, hoses, and adapter from U.S. civilian agencies
- Coordinating the transport and distribution of donated equipment
- Engaging with Paraguayan stakeholders through subject matter exchanges
Key partners include Paraguay’s National Emergency Secretariat (SEN), local fire brigades, military forces, and private sector operational personnel. Areas of focus encompass wildland, aviation, and urban firefighting.
Emerging Crisis – Wildland Fires in the Chaco Region:
Paraguay is facing a growing threat from wildfires, particularly in the Chaco region, due to intensified deforestation and climate change. In the past year alone, the country experienced over 500 wildfires. Historically, the Paraguayan military contributed 25% of wildfire response personnel. Under President Peña’s directive, COL Fabio Candia is now leading the effort to train and equip the military to assume nearly full responsibility for wildfire response. Without adequate training and resources, these brigades are at high risk, endangering lives and property.
Path Forward:
Efforts are underway to professionalize firefighting across Paraguay by:
- Establishing baseline standards by region and sector
- Defining minimum safety and compliance requirements
- Training technical inspectors for structural fire risk assessments
The Massachusetts SPP remains committed to supporting Paraguay in building a more capable and resilient firefighting force.
Any assistance is appreciated.