Arona has today launched the First International Week of Safety and Emergencies, an event organised by the Town Hall, through the Security Department, in collaboration with the Government of the Canary Islands and the Tenerife Cabildo.
The opening ceremony took place at the Infanta Leonor Auditorium in Los Cristianos and brought together institutional representatives, security and emergency professionals, as well as specialists in psychology and crisis communication.
The inauguration coincided with the celebration of World Suicide Prevention Day, lending the event an especially significant context.
Mayor Fátima Lemes Reverón emphasised that Arona is becoming “a space for dialogue between professionals and citizens, with a clear objective: to share knowledge, enhance the preparedness of those who protect us, and raise public awareness of the importance of prevention and security.”
In the same vein, the Security Councillor, Alexis Gómez, remarked that this first edition “is intended to be a continuous event because we want Arona to become a reference point each year for training and dissemination on emergencies. Investing in security is investing in the well-being of our citizens and visitors.”
From a regional and island perspective, there was also an emphasis on the need for cooperation and prevention. The Councillor for Territorial Policy, Territorial Cohesion and Water of the Government of the Canary Islands, Manuel Miranda, noted that “civil protection in the Canary Islands is currently undergoing a transformation process aimed at professionalising emergency services, promoting active participation from citizens in prevention and self-protection, and centralising security and emergency services across the Canary Islands.”
Meanwhile, the Councillor for Natural Environment, Security and Emergencies of the Tenerife Cabildo, Blanca Pérez, stated that “the protection of Tenerife and the preparation of our residents is paramount; we need an island that is prepared for the future and any emergencies that may arise. These sessions are part of the Isle Strategy for Protection and Security, and undoubtedly, cooperation between administrations is essential.”
The Town Hall of Arona presented awards for commitment to Security and Emergency Response to the Government of the Canary Islands, the Tenerife Cabildo, and journalist Yaiza Perera during the inauguration.
Following the ceremony, the first lectures were conducted, focusing on crisis intervention, suicide prevention, as well as leadership and communication in emergency situations.
The programme will continue tomorrow, 11 September, with new sessions and a roundtable on Tenerife’s preparedness for natural phenomena and possible disasters.
Over the weekend, activities will move to the Fisherman’s Square, where the Safety and Emergencies Fair will take place, open to all citizens, featuring demonstrations, vehicles, workshops, and free activities for all ages.
