Forest Fire Comes Dangerously Close to the Belize Zoo

On Sunday, fire nearly burned its way into the Belize Zoo. Reports from Zoo Management is that a raging bush fire which started in the pine savanna forest south of the zoo, brought smoke and fire dangerously close.  The flames billowed, reaching as high as the tallest pine trees, as the staff attempted to out the blaze in fear that the aggressive bush fire would come on to the zoo compound.  Guests were advised to leave the zoo grounds, and patrols were put into action to ensure that no dangerous side-sparks appeared.  The Belmopan Fire Department responded soon after, around one-thirty p.m. In its release, Director of Education Jamaal Andrewin says that the fire was “set intentionally and carelessly by members of the public in the area, who underestimate the unpredictable and destructive force an out-of-control fire can yield.” The incident highlights the importance of responsible burning practices to avoid threat to life and livelihoods.