HÀ NỘI — Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has urged stepping up wildfire prevention measures as heatwaves are scorching many localities nationwide, increasing the risk of wildfires. The PM noted that northern, central and southwestern regions are going through heat waves that push temperatures to up to 40 degrees Celsius in certain areas. Forest fires have been reported in some localities like Hòa Bình, Sơn La, Điện Biên, Lai Châu, Quảng Nam, and Lâm Đồng, causing great losses, according to the dispatch. To prevent wildfires and reduce their damage, the PM asked chairpersons of people’s committees of provinces and centrally-run cities to take responsibility for the work in their localities. Inspections and supervisions over wildfire prevention and control should be enhanced and considered a key task, he said, asking local authorities to review forces and equipment, and outline wildfire prevention and control plans.