Μake us preferred on Google A very high risk of wildfire, classified as risk level 4, has been declared Monday, August 31, for parts of Crete and the South Aegean, according to Greece’s Fire Risk Prediction Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution and avoid any activity that could lead to a fire.
The warning covers the following areas:
- Crete: the regional units of Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi
- South Aegean: the regional unit of Karpathos
Authorities placed on heightened alert
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has notified the relevant state services, regional authorities and municipalities in the affected areas so they can remain on heightened readiness and respond immediately to any wildfire incidents.
The authorities are also urging people to avoid outdoor activities that could cause fires through negligence.
These include burning dry grass, branches or other vegetation waste; using equipment that can produce sparks, such as circular saws and welding devices; using outdoor grills; smoking out beehives; and discarding lit cigarettes.
Firefighting and patrol measures remain in place
The Fire Service’s second operational readiness level remains in effect in the affected areas.
Aerial surveillance patrols will be conducted, alongside patrols by firefighters, police and military personnel.
Fire Service personnel in the affected regions will also remain on partial standby to meet increased operational demands that could arise because of the very high fire risk.
The Civil Protection action plan for managing the risk of forest fires also remains in effect.
Among other measures, the plan allows for the preventive restriction of vehicle access and visitor presence in national parks, forests and other vulnerable areas when necessary.
Authorities are calling on the public to comply fully with fire-safety measures and to avoid any action that could contribute to the outbreak of a wildfire.
