Greece is strengthening its civil-protection system and emergency preparedness as authorities continue working to improve the country’s ability to respond to wildfires, extreme weather and other natural disasters.

The Greek government has made disaster prevention and rapid emergency response major priorities, particularly as climate-related risks place increasing pressure on communities across the country.

Greater emphasis on prevention

Greek authorities are focusing increasingly on preventing disasters before they occur.

Government agencies are working to improve early-warning systems, wildfire monitoring and coordination between emergency services.

Local authorities are also being encouraged to clear vegetation and maintain areas around settlements where accumulated dry material can increase wildfire risks.

Firefighting capabilities being strengthened

Greece has continued upgrading its firefighting resources and emergency-response equipment.

Firefighters, civil-protection personnel, police and local authorities regularly participate in coordinated preparedness exercises designed to improve their response during large-scale emergencies.

The government has also been expanding the use of modern monitoring and communication technologies.

Communities play important role

Officials are urging residents to follow evacuation instructions and remain alert during periods of elevated wildfire danger.

Public awareness is considered an important part of Greece’s emergency strategy because fires can spread rapidly, particularly during periods of high temperatures and strong winds.

Authorities are also encouraging households and businesses to take precautionary measures around properties.

Climate risks increase pressure

Greece is among the European countries particularly exposed to extreme heat, drought and wildfires.

The government says adapting infrastructure and strengthening emergency planning will therefore be essential as climate-related risks continue to evolve.

Investment in prevention is being treated as an important complement to firefighting and emergency response.

European cooperation

Greece also works with European Union partners on disaster preparedness and emergency assistance.

European mechanisms can provide additional firefighting aircraft, personnel and technical support when a major emergency exceeds national capacity.

This cooperation has become increasingly important as extreme weather events affect several European countries at the same time.

Building long-term resilience

Greece’s civil-protection strategy is increasingly centred on prevention, preparedness and rapid response rather than relying only on emergency action after disasters occur.

By strengthening early warnings, firefighting resources, local preparedness and international cooperation, authorities hope to reduce the impact of future emergencies.

The country is expected to continue investing in civil protection as it faces the combined challenges of extreme weather, wildfires and climate-related risks.