Μake us preferred on Google Authorities in Athens have closed several parks and hills to visitors amid a high risk of wildfires, while municipal services have been placed on heightened alert and drones equipped with thermal cameras will monitor vulnerable areas.
The Municipality of Athens has closed Lycabettus Hill, Pedion tou Areos and Finopoulou Hill to vehicles and visitors to reduce the risk of fires.
The measures come as authorities have imposed restrictions on access to forests and national parks because of the elevated wildfire risk.
Patrols and drones deployed
Under the Civil Protection plan, patrol teams are being formed to monitor areas across the Athens basin.
Municipal police officers will assist with patrols in Strefi, Philopappou, Tourkovounia and Ilissia. Drones equipped with thermal cameras will also monitor the designated areas.
The Municipality of Athens has placed its municipal police, as well as its cleaning and green-space services, on 24-hour alert.
Municipal water tankers are also on standby, while specialized fire-protection vehicles are ready at the municipal camps in Agios Andreas.
Authorities urge caution
The municipal authorities are strongly urging residents to avoid any work that could produce sparks or involve an open flame, including welding, metal cutting and the use of blowtorches.
Residents are also urged to immediately contact the municipal emergency line at 1595 if they encounter a fire-related danger.
