Strong warning from the Rodopi Fire Department ahead of fire season

As the official fire season in Greece begins today, May 1st, and runs through October 31st, the Fire Services Administration of the Rodopi region has issued a strong public advisory, urging citizens to exercise extreme caution and avoid any outdoor activities that could spark wildfires.

Authorities emphasize the importance of contacting local fire departments for guidance regarding:

• Permitted or prohibited activities in rural and forested areas,
• Fire prevention measures and tools,
• Daily fire risk levels, as published by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, and
• Any other wildfire-related information.

Citizens are also encouraged to monitor updates on forest fire conditions via the official Fire Service website www.fireservice.gr, and to consult self-protection guidelines on the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection website www.civilprotection.gr.

Intensive Patrols and Enforcement

Throughout the fire season, extensive patrols and inspections will be conducted to prevent the outbreak and spread of wildfires, as well as to enforce compliance with Fire Regulation No. 9/2024 (Official Gazette B’ 2387/22.04.2024). This regulation outlines preventive measures for forests, grasslands, agricultural lands, urban parks, and protected areas.

Non-compliance with the regulation will result in hefty administrative fines and severe criminal penalties, in accordance with the updated Penal Code.

Obligation to Clean and Maintain Properties

Authorities remind all property owners, tenants, and users of vacant or undeveloped land that they are legally required to clear and maintain these areas from May 1 to October 31, in order to prevent the ignition and rapid spread of fires.

• In Case of Fire: Act Immediately
• If you see smoke, flames, or any signs of fire risk:
• Call 199 or 112 immediately,
• Provide clear details about:
• Your location,
• The exact location and direction of the fire,
• Wind intensity in the area, and
• The type of vegetation burning.

Citizens are instructed to evacuate the area promptly and follow all official instructions. Facilitating access for firefighting forces is also critical.

“Protecting human life and our natural environment is everyone’s responsibility,” the statement concludes.

Source: Paratiritis News