Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus launched Forest Protection Week on Monday under the slogan “Don’t wait for the fire – prevent it. Fire protection starts with you,” as officials highlighted wildfire risks and prevention measures.
Wildfires cited as major threat
Forestry department chief Savvas Iezekiel said wildfires remain the most serious threat to Cyprus’ forests and stressed the importance of prevention, early detection and rapid response.
Measures and operational deployment
Iezekiel said the department’s approach is based on prevention, readiness and suppression, adding that the fire season has already begun with full operational deployment. Measures include maintaining firebreak infrastructure, conducting patrols with ground units and drones, and managing vegetation to reduce combustible material.
Astrapi strategy and upcoming exercise
Iezekiel referred to the Astrapi first-response strategy, aimed at mobilising maximum forces in the shortest possible time to contain fires at an early stage. He said a large-scale firefighting exercise, Hephaestus 2026, will take place on May 19 to test coordination among all relevant services.
Ministry message on shared responsibility
Speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou, director general of the ministry Costas Constantinou said protecting forests is a collective responsibility, describing forests as an invaluable natural heritage essential for biodiversity, environmental protection and tackling climate change. He said prevention, awareness, preparedness and cooperation are key to addressing wildfires and highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, technology and forest management.
Campaign timeline and commemorations
The awareness campaign will run until Sunday, and its launch was dedicated to senior forest officer Michalis Makris, who died on May 7 after 37 years of service.
Awards and equipment donations
During the ceremony, honorary plaques were awarded to two private bulldozer operators for their long-standing contribution to wildfire suppression efforts. Following the event, two rapid-response fire engines valued at €88,600 were handed over to the forestry department by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, while the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority donated wireless networking equipment to support operations.
What steps will you take to help prevent wildfires during the fire season?
