Cyprus strengthens fire readiness: 13 aircraft to be deployed this season

Cypriot authorities are stepping up measures to prevent and extinguish forest fires before the start of the summer season. The Chief of the Cyprus Fire Service and chief fire-fighting coordinator, Nikos Longinos, announced that 13 aircraft, modern electro-optical surveillance systems, and a citizen alert system via SMS will be used this year to respond to emergencies.

The statement followed a meeting at the Presidential Palace attended by the President of the Republic of Cyprus, the Ministers of Justice and Agriculture, and heads of services responsible for fire prevention and elimination.

According to Longinos, all state structures presented reports on preparation for the fire-hazardous period within the framework of national response plans. He noted that, despite the progress made, there is room for further improvement in coordination and prevention.

The authorities are particularly concerned about the large amount of dry vegetation following the rainy season. In this regard, the state is intensifying information campaigns among the population, as more than 90% of fires in Cyprus are caused by human activity.

“About 5,000 fires are recorded on the island every year — this is an extremely high figure that must be reduced through prevention,” Longinos emphasized.

He also noted the importance of a rapid response in the first minutes after an outbreak. According to him, the prompt actions of the fire service, forest department, and aviation allow for the containment of a fire before it spreads extensively.

Since April 1, all aircraft are already in full readiness and can be deployed immediately if necessary. Authorities hope that the combination of technical means, aviation, and public awareness will help reduce risks in the upcoming summer period.