Deficiencies exposed in fire preparedness at national coordination meeting

Deficiencies in Cyprus’ preparedness for forest fires were identified on Tuesday during the first coordination meeting under newly appointed fire and civil defence chief Nikos Longinos, despite assurances that services are ready for the upcoming fire season.

The meeting, held at the fire brigade’s headquarters in Lakatamia, highlighted weaknesses in evacuation planning and coordination, with civil defence reported to be unprepared in key areas including how evacuations will be carried out and how the public will be informed.