Forest and land fires (Karhutla) are a serious threat, especially in peatlands which have special characteristics. Peatlands are very vulnerable to fires which can spread quickly and are difficult to extinguish. Therefore, the Karhutla Patrol Team on duty on peatlands must be equipped with special knowledge and skills, including training in First Aid for Accidents (P3K).
Fires on peatlands are not only difficult to extinguish, but also produce thick, toxic smoke that has a negative impact on human health and the environment. In 2015, severe fires hit peatlands in Kahayan Hilir, Central Kalimantan, causing thick haze to blanket the area. During firefighting operations, several members of the Fire Awareness Society (MPA) and other fire teams experienced various health problems and injuries, highlighting the urgent need for first aid training.

In August 2023, fires started in the Sebangau area so patrol teams and joint teams from the parties were always ready to extinguish the fire so that forest and land fires did not spread. The Forest and Forestry Patrol Team (TPK) is working hard to extinguish and search for water sources. Fires in peatlands produce thick and toxic smoke which is dangerous to health.
“When the fire was massive in Kahayan Hilir District, Pulang Pisau Regency in 2023. One of the team members who was extinguishing forest and land fires in Buntoi Village experienced symptoms of smoke poisoning, including shortness of breath, dizziness and nausea and was rushed to the Community Health Center,” said Jamal, as Chairman of the Buntoi TPK
In such situations, early treatment is very important to prevent the condition from getting worse. Without First Aid (P3K), other team members may not know how to provide necessary assistance, such as administering oxygen or moving the victim to an area with clean air.
Not only that, patrol team members often work in dangerous and unpredictable environments. The risk of injury from burns, animal bites or falls is very high. With first aid training, team members can provide first aid effectively, which can reduce the severity of injuries and increase the chances of recovery.

Looking at the events that occurred above, in the midst of a fire, access to medical facilities may be limited or require a long time. The importance of the safety of the Forest and Forestry Patrol Team in minimizing risks is why the team’s preparedness is important in handling forest and land fires. This preparedness simulated in First Aid Training allows team members to provide quick and appropriate initial treatment, thereby preventing the condition from worsening before professional medical help arrives.
According to Dr. Nia Nainggolan as the First Aid training facilitator said that First Aid is first aid that can be given to victims before they are taken to better health facilities such as doctors, clinics or hospitals.
“The goal is to prevent serious injuries from occurring, calm the sufferer or victim, save lives, and support healing,” explained Dr. Nia

Map of the potential level of ease of occurrence of forest and land fires for the period 28 June to 4 July 2024 in the Low or Safe category. However, the alertness of the Karhutla Patrol Team has been facilitated from the start to support the ability of the Karhutla Patrol Team to deal with Karhutla. First aid training is also an integral part of the preparation and provision for every forest patrol team on duty on peatlands.
Facing the high risks that exist on peatlands, readiness and the ability to provide first aid can make a big difference between life and death. Therefore, efforts to provide comprehensive and quality first aid training must be a priority for all parties involved in peatland management and protection.
In the context of peatlands that are prone to forest and land fires, first aid training is a necessity that cannot be ignored. Vigilance or preparedness of the Karhutla Patrol Team (TPK) is an important investment in the safety and effectiveness of the Karhutla patrol team, as well as the protection of the valuable peat ecosystem. With the skills and knowledge that TPK gain from first aid training simulations, team members are able to protect not only themselves but also their colleagues.
Author: Alma Tiara
Editor: Joko
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