In case of fire call 199
The forest fire problem is sadly not new to Crete and with the outbreak of the “first fire of the season”, last night near Ierapetra, the Fire Service has made a srong announcement regarding the laws pertaining to human responsibility on the issue.
1st of May is the “official” start of the high risk period for forest fire and with that in mind, here are some facts, which may help us to become more aware of the dangers, and what we may personally be able to do to help.
Forest fires are considered as a major and permanent threat for the forests of the Mediterranean. Every year, forest fires cause enormous and irreparable damage to forest ecosystems and in some cases threaten residential regions. There are many factors that contribute to an increased fire risk, such as high temperatures and prolonged drought periods, the strong winds, the configuration of the ground and the extremely flammable vegetation. The accumulation of biomass due to the abandonment of rural areas and the increasing tourism and exodus of city residents to forested areas, are also important factors which contribute to an increased fire risk, especially during summer months.
Causes of forest fires
According to forest fire statistics, 9 out of 10 forest fires are of human-caused origin.
The main causes of forest fires are:
Agricultural activities like burning grass-gorse or stubble.
Throwing of burning cigarettes end or matches.
Lighting of fires in restricted areas.
Burning of wastes and garbage at non-authorized landfill sites.
Military exercises.
Hunting activities.
Residential activities like the use of electrical tools that cause sparks and burn of wastes.
Arson.
Short-circuit of power lines.
Lightnings.
Agricultural activities like burning grass-gorse or stubble
Impacts of forest fires
Forest fires don’t just have an impact on the environment, but on economy, society, and human health. Forest fires leave a visual impact, causing damage to houses and other properties, environmental destruction, damage to local and national economies and the potential for loss of life.
Fires caused as a result of human negligence, are considered a criminal offense and will be harshly punished as stated in the relevant laws of the State. Prison terms, depending on the offense range from 2 years to Life, whilst monetary fines start at 2,900 euros and reach a maximum of 150,000 euros.
As individuals, we can help in restricting the risk of the outbreak of a fire and of it spreading unnecessarily.