Greek authorities have issued a very high wildfire risk alert (Category 4) for Thursday, July 16, covering Crete and several islands in the North Aegean, as fire services and civil protection agencies prepare for an elevated threat of forest fires.
According to Greece’s General Secretariat for Civil Protection, the warning applies to Crete as well as the North Aegean islands of Chios, Samos and Ikaria.
Authorities have notified all relevant state agencies, regional authorities and municipalities in the affected areas to remain on heightened alert and respond immediately to any wildfire outbreaks.
Emergency measures activated
The Fire Service said it will maintain its second level of operational readiness, with increased aerial surveillance and additional patrols by fire, police and military forces.
Fire service personnel in the affected regions will also remain on partial standby to respond quickly to any incidents resulting from the elevated fire danger.
At the same time, the government’s wildfire response plan remains in force, allowing for preventive restrictions on vehicle access and visitor movement in national parks, forests and other high-risk areas where necessary.
Public urged to exercise caution
Authorities are calling on residents and visitors to avoid any outdoor activities that could accidentally ignite a fire. These include burning dry vegetation or agricultural waste, using equipment that produces sparks, operating outdoor barbecues, beekeeping practices involving smoke, and discarding lit cigarettes.
Officials also reminded the public that burning fields is prohibited during the wildfire season.
Anyone who spots a fire is urged to immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199 and to follow instructions issued by emergency authorities if a wildfire occurs.
