Fire season begins with serious staff, equipment shortages
The high-alert season for the Greek fire service officially began on Friday, with officials voicing concerns regarding serious shortages in staff and equipment.
The general secretary for civil protection, Tasos Mavropoulos, said emphasis is being put on prevention, with municipalities receiving special funds to clear underbrush and vacant lots.
However, he stressed that the fire service in particular is short of equipment following the cancellation of a tender for the supply of helmets, suits etc, while much of the country’s fleet of water-dumping planes and firetrucks is in need of servicing.
