Stepping Up for the Wildfire Season
As the threat of the impending wildfire season looms, Cyprus is accelerating its efforts to bolster fire defense mechanisms. Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis, speaking during the commencement of
The justice and agriculture ministries are poised to present proposals for the acquisition of new firefighting equipment. This procurement is a strategic move that complements the recent announcement of adding 259 new firefighters to the existing workforce. This year also marks a first for Cyprus as it welcomes a contingent of volunteer firefighters to support professional crews.
Hartsiotis highlighted the poignant theme of this year’s fire safety week: “to not let our dreams turn to ashes.” This message underscores the critical importance of environmental respect and collective responsibility in safeguarding the land from fire hazards.
Triggered by the devastating 2021 blaze near Arakapas village, the fire and crisis management system has since integrated modern technological systems for fire monitoring and early detection. The first phase, operational since last summer, has significantly improved surveillance in forested regions.
Further safety enhancements include 24-hour staffing at fire stations in key mountain villages and plans for new fire stations in both rural and urban settings. The government also celebrates the success of its “fire watcher” initiative, which has seen over 110,000 citizens enlist to aid in early fire detection and report suspicious activities that could lead to fires.
With these comprehensive measures, Cyprus is setting a precedent in fire preparedness and community involvement, aiming to protect its natural landscapes and ensure the safety of its residents throughout the wildfire season and beyond.
