Crete and the regional units of Chios, Samos and Ikaria will remain on Red Code mobilisation on Saturday as authorities warn of a very high risk of wildfires.
According to the Fire Risk Forecast Map issued by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, the areas face Category 4 fire risk, the second-highest level on the national scale.
The Red Code mobilisation applies to the Region of Crete and the Region of North Aegean, specifically the regional units of Chios, Samos and Ikaria.
Attica Remains on Red Code
Attica will also remain under Red Code mobilisation because authorities consider the risk of potentially destructive flare-ups serious in areas affected by the wildfire of July 31, 2026.
The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection said Red Code mobilisation provides for the full deployment of the necessary personnel, equipment and resources to prepare for an imminent threat, respond to emergencies and manage the consequences of a major disaster. Authorities will also launch short-term recovery, assistance and support measures to mitigate the effects of any disaster.
As part of the mobilisation, municipalities and regional authorities in the affected areas have been instructed to immediately convene their Local and Regional Civil Protection Operational Coordination Bodies. The bodies will assess preparedness and measures for dealing with the threat of forest fires.
Firefighting and Security Patrols to Increase
The Fire Service said it would activate its second operational readiness stage based on Saturday’s fire risk forecast.
Aerial surveillance patrols will increase, alongside patrols by firefighting, police and military forces.
Fire Service personnel in the affected regional units will also enter partial standby to meet increased operational demands that may arise from the very high Category 4 fire risk.
Authorities will also implement the Civil Protection action plan for forest fire risks. Among other measures, the plan allows authorities to impose preventive restrictions on vehicle access and visitor stays in national parks, forests and other vulnerable areas.
The General Secretariat for Civil Protection has informed the relevant government agencies, regional authorities and municipalities so they can maintain increased civil protection readiness and respond immediately to any wildfire incidents.
Fire Service Urges Public Caution
The Fire Service has urged residents and visitors to exercise particular caution and avoid outdoor activities that could accidentally start fires.
These include burning dry grass, branches or garden waste; using equipment that can produce sparks, such as circular saws and welding equipment; using outdoor grills; smoking bees; and throwing away lit cigarette ends.
Authorities also reminded the public that field burning remains prohibited during the wildfire prevention season.
Citizens are urged to follow wildfire prevention information issued through the Fire Service’s official website and social media accounts.
Anyone who spots a fire should immediately contact the Fire Service by calling 199.
The Fire Service also urged everyone to follow the instructions of the competent authorities in the event of a wildfire and to prioritise their safety.
Further information and self-protection guidance on forest fire risks is available through the General Secretariat for Civil Protection.
