Attica, Boeotia and Euboea are among the regions of Greece facing the highest wildfire risk (Category 4) on Monday, August 3, according to the Fire Danger Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection. As stated, “very high fire danger is forecast for the following areas: the Region of Attica, the Region of Central Greece (Regional Unit of Boeotia, Regional Unit of Euboea).”
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has notified all relevant state agencies, as well as the Regional and Municipal authorities of the above-mentioned areas, to remain on heightened civil protection alert in order to respond immediately to any potential fire incidents.
Wildfires: The Fire Service’s urgent appeal
As announced by the Hellenic Fire Service, due to multiple simultaneous incidents across the country and the prevailing weather conditions, all Fire Service personnel nationwide remain on general standby in order to meet the increased operational demands.
Additionally, aerial surveillance patrols are ongoing, along with ground patrols conducted by fire, police and military units.
At the same time, the Civil Protection Action Plan for managing wildfire risks remains in effect for these areas. Among other measures, this plan includes the preventive prohibition of vehicle traffic and the presence of visitors in national parks, forests and other vulnerable areas.
The Fire Service is also issuing an urgent appeal to all citizens:
1. To exercise extreme caution and avoid any outdoor activities that could accidentally cause a fire, such as burning dry grass, branches or garden waste; using spark-generating machinery such as angle grinders or welding equipment; using outdoor barbecues; smoking beehives; or discarding lit cigarettes. It is also reminded that the burning of fields is strictly prohibited during the fire prevention season.
2. To follow wildfire prevention information available on the official website and social media accounts of the Hellenic Fire Service on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
3. If they spot a fire, to immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199.
Finally, the Fire Service urges all citizens to remain especially vigilant and, in the event of a fire, to strictly follow the instructions of the competent authorities for their own safety.
For more information and self-protection guidelines regarding wildfire risks, citizens can visit the General Secretariat for Civil Protection’s official website at www.civilprotection.gr.
