The fire station in San Carlos recently marked 56 years of service. Modernizing equipment and facilities, along with hiring more personnel, are the priorities for the 'Mario H. Aguilar' station of the Honorable Fire Corps of the Republic of Panama (BCBRP) in the district of San Carlos, West Panama Province. Tomás Batista, the general secretary of the BCBRP, stated that they are addressing the various needs faced by this and other fire stations across the country. For the 'red shirts' in this district, one of the biggest concerns and challenges is how to handle potential fires in the residential complexes built in the San Carlos district. The station is equipped with two fire trucks, both of which are decades old and have operational limitations. San Carlos is an area characterized by traffic accidents and, due to its extensive beachfront, also requires specialized personnel. In January 2025, the BCBRP's board approved an investment of $25,481,641.58 for the acquisition of new equipment, vehicles, technology, supplies, and improvements to fire stations. The 'Mario H. Aguilar' station admitted it needs an efficient fire truck, which is why the purchase of new specialized equipment is underway. Batista also added that efforts are being made to appoint more personnel, especially in the Department of Suppression, Search, and Rescue (DOEXBURE), to handle emergencies in this zone. Of this sum, $21,433,000.00 will be used to purchase 20 new fire trucks.
San Carlos Fire Station Celebrates 56 Years, Needs Modernization
The San Carlos fire station in Panama celebrated its 56th anniversary. It urgently needs new vehicles and staff to effectively combat fires in residential areas and handle traffic accidents. The government has allocated funds for modernization.
