Guatemala firefighters launch training Plan for fireworks sellers

The Cuerpo de Bomberos Municipales (CBM) launched Plan Belén 2026 to reduce fires and injuries caused by fireworks during year end celebrations in Guatemala.

The fire department will provide theoretical and practical training sessions for fireworks sellers and distributors between November 17 and December 17, 2026. These classes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Escuela Técnica de Bomberos Municipales in Guatemala City. Participants can attend sessions at 10:00 or 15:00.

The training costs 225 quetzales per person and provides a certificate. Instructors will teach participants how to identify pyrotechnic materials, manage storage risks, and perform initial fire control and first aid for burns. Commander Luis Donado of the CBM explained that firework consumption rises significantly starting in October, peaking during the traditional quema del diablo on December 7 and continuing through Christmas and New Year.

The program aims to protect the safety of merchants and customers while preventing economic losses from property damage. The CBM also advised the public to avoid using home remedies like toothpaste or tomatoes on burns, as these can complicate medical treatment. The department urged parents to supervise children and warned against storing fireworks in pockets or using them near homes.