OREANDA-NEWS. On 19 May 2009 was announced, that IlimSeverLes (Ilim Group logging enterprises, Ilim West business unit) spent RUR 2 million 628 thousand on preparing for the fire-hazardous season 2009.

The fire prevention and preparedness measures involved IlimSeverLes purchasing equipment, including 17 water tanks, 16 mounted pumps, 10 motor pumps, 4.5 thousand meters of fire hoses, 20 incendiary devices to create contrary fire, and 980 kg of penetrating agent which helps to extinguish fires. For extinguishing peat-bog fires 6 special peat pipes were purchased, the construction of which allows pouring water under the upper layer of peat.

Also some special heavy equipment was purchased including 4 pushers TK which can be attached to tractors to create dividing strips to prevent the spreading of a fire.

Besides purchasing equipment, all logging companies of IlimSeverLes issued orders to create voluntary fire brigades and to appoint people in charge. Plans on fire fighting were harmonized with local forestry authorities. Preventive measures were also established, by creating dividing strips, placing guard posters alongside forest roads and arranging smoking areas.