Nicosia, Cyprus. The Fire Service is preparing emergency measures ahead of a forecast heatwave, with a national coordination meeting scheduled for Tuesday to review fire prevention and response plans.
The meeting will assess additional measures in line with weather forecasts and expected high temperatures.
National coordination meeting
The meeting will be chaired by Chief Officer Nikos Longinos in his capacity as national fire coordinator. State services and other competent authorities will participate.
Fire Service spokesperson Andreas Kettis said preparations have focused on preventing fires and limiting the impact of major incidents.
Fire risk and incidents
The Fire Service has responded to 1,350 fires in 2026, with more than 10 per cent assessed as having the potential to develop into major incidents, according to Kettis.
He said many fires are caused by negligence, including discarded cigarettes, outdoor burning, hot tools and waste that can become an ignition source. Current environmental conditions make it easier for fires to start and spread, he added.
Equipment and infrastructure
The brigade has expanded its operational capacity through new equipment and infrastructure, including the National Operations Coordination Centre, established with €6.5 million in European funding.
Kettis said the service is awaiting delivery of 10 water tanks, each with a capacity of 56,000 litres. The tanks will be placed in areas without nearby water sources to improve emergency access.
Additional vehicles and water tankers, funded through an Interior Ministry allocation of more than €1.2 million, have been positioned at strategic points in the Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos districts.
Kettis said diggers and water tankers are important for fire suppression, water supply and the creation of firebreaks.
