Today, around 3 p.m., a unique event unfolded at the lake of La Monnerie de la Flèche in Sarthe. A Bombardier Dash-8 plane performed a water drop, releasing 10,000 liters of water near a fire truck. This unprecedented maneuver caught the attention of passersby and underscored a critical moment in the fight against forest fires.

The demonstration was part of the launch of the 2025 forest and natural spaces prevention campaign. Organized by the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS) Sarthe, the event showcased the resources available to the region’s firefighters to combat potential wildfires.

Benoît Guérin, the forest fires and natural spaces referent for Sarthe, explained that the demonstration aimed to highlight the capabilities of the state’s firefighting assets. “The plane made a safety drop to protect a machine from the firefighters who had encountered difficulties,” he said.

Evergreen Context: Combating Forest Fires in Sarthe

Sarthe, the most wooded department in the Pays de la Loire region, is no stranger to the threat of forest fires, especially during periods of high risk. Range in the context of increasing global warming, effective prevention and quick response are crucial.

The SDIS Sarthe has been proactive in implementing advanced technologies to monitor and manage forest fires. Innovations such as Forest light detection cameras and XpertEye devices provide real-time intelligence and situational awareness, ensuring that the right resources are deployed swiftly and efficiently.

A Unique App for Real-Time Alerts

During the launch event, SDIS 72 also introduced a new application, the first of its kind in France, named “Sentinels de la Forêt.” Developed to address the need for precise information about fire risks and preventive measures, the app uses geolocation to provide real-time notifications and updates.

Benoît Guérin highlighted the importance of the app: “It allows the general public, forest and agricultural professionals, and authorities to remain informed independently and take necessary precautions.” This innovative tool will augments existing resources and enables a more coordinated response to forest fire threats.

Looking Ahead: A Connected and Responsive SDIS Sarthe

The introduction of new technologies and applications underscores the commitment of SDIS Sarthe to stay ahead of potential wildfires. As part of the continuing fight against forest fires, visiting the lake of La Monnerie was not random. The site is one of 36 water points available to SDIS for aspiring operations during fires.

The app is set to be available next week after successful validation, providing another layer of defense to protect Sarthe’s natural landscapes. This impressive initiative showcases how integrated technologies can enhance firefighting capabilities and strengthen community resilience against environmental challenges.