In this study, we evaluated the conditions for preventing and fighting forest fires in the Conservation Units (CU) of Espirito Santo state, Brazil. We visited the 16 existing CUs in the state. During these visits, we analyzed documents, reports and management plans and conducted interviews with the managers. The fires were characterized by main groups of causes and arranged according to size class: I (0-0.009 ha), II (0.1-4.0 ha), III (4.1-40.0 ha), IV (40.1-200.0 ha), and V (>200 ha). The Sustainable Use Units showed the lowest deficits of personnel and operating equipment; however, the management effectiveness of the Integral Protection Units is greater, presenting good infrastructure and permanent action of personnel. The major cause of fire was debris burning (20%) and the most common size classes were II and III (25%). Despite the limitations in personnel and operational equipment, the CUs hold the minimum conditions required for actions of prevention and combat to forest fires.
protected areas; planning; public policy