Occupational safety and health

Minister announces hiring of 500 firefighters to strengthen civil protection

During an interview with newspaper To Vima on Sunday, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Vassilis Kikilias discussed the forthcoming priorities to enhance Civil Protection.

Kikilias emphasized that their foremost concern is recruiting over 500 new firefighters to provide substantial support during wildfires. 

Covid deaths ease as prevalence rises

Covid-related deaths dropped slightly to 15 in the period from July 17 to 23 from 16 the week before that, the National Public Health Organization (EODY) confirmed in its weekly bulletin on Thursday.

The number of patients who had to be intubated, seven, marked a 75% rise compared to the four-week average before it.

Wildfire breaks out in Evia

A new fire broke out early on Thursday on the island of Evia, in the area of Kymi.

According to the Fire Brigade, the fire was burning mixed forest and farm land near the town's entrance and did not yet pose any threat to residences.

A total of eight fire engines with 17 firefighters as crew, assisted by two firefighting helicopters were battling the blaze.

 

The key objective

Unfortunately, this summer has again confirmed that fires are a permanent and constant challenge, while experts warn that the worst is yet to come in terms of the frequency and destructiveness of natural disasters.

Strengthening the firefighting force is certainly indicated, but experience has shown us that it is not enough. 

Wildfires continue to rage across Greece

The firefighting forces, along with volunteers, battled the flames throughout the night in several areas of Greece. The islands of Rhodes and Corfu, as well as Aigio in the northern Peloponnese, Karystos on Evia, and Yliki north of Athens, were affected. Airplanes began operations early on Monday to aid in firefighting efforts.

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