A large-scale wildfire response exercise was held on Tuesday near the Troodos village of Kapedes in the Nicosia district, focusing on national forest fire preparedness. The drill, named Ifestos after the ancient Greek god of fire, was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the national wildfire response framework and enhance the coordination among various agencies.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Officials reported that the exercise involved the deployment of fire engines, water tankers, ambulances, personnel transport vehicles, and firefighting aircraft. This comprehensive approach aimed to strengthen operational readiness in the face of increasing wildfire threats.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
During the exercise, Savvas Iezekiel, head of the forestry department, highlighted the growing danger posed by forest fires. He underscored the need for “continuous preparedness and close cooperation” between state services and volunteer organisations to effectively combat these incidents. Iezekiel praised the dedication and professionalism of forestry department staff in their efforts to protect forests, human life, and property.
The simulated scenario depicted a major fire outbreak southeast of Kapedes, which rapidly spread into the Machairas national park, posing a threat to nearby homes and the surrounding community. This realistic setting allowed participants to demonstrate their skills and readiness for real-life emergencies.
A variety of agencies took part in the exercise, including the forestry department, fire brigade, police, civil defence, national guard, and the joint search and rescue coordination centre (JRCC). British bases personnel and aerial assets were also involved, reflecting a collaborative effort in tackling forest fire challenges.
The exercise not only provided an opportunity to practice emergency procedures but also fostered teamwork among the various organisations, paving the way for improved responses in the event of an actual wildfire. As climate change continues to exacerbate the risk of forest fires, such drills are crucial for safeguarding communities across the region.
