Access to forests and NATURA protected areas prohibited due to high wildfire risk in Corfu (20 July)

Due to the forecast of a High Wildfire Risk (Category 3) for the Regional Unit of Corfu on Monday, 20, government authorities are on heightened alert. To ensure public safety, emergency measures and strict guidelines are in effect.

1. Access Restrictions & Fines

On Monday, 20 July, from 1:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., the entry, presence, and movement of people and vehicles are prohibited in forest ecosystems, parks, and NATURA protected areas in the following locations:

South Corfu:

• Issos Cedar Forest (Korission Sand Dunes)
• Agios Mattheos Forest
• Arkoudilas
• Theofylaktos Area (Pavliana)

Central Corfu & Diapontia Islands:

• Lazaretto Island
• Kombitsi
• Agioi Deka
• Stavros
• Agios Panteleimon (Kato Garouna)

Paxos:

• Erimitis
• Panagia Island
• Agios Nikolaos Island

Fine: A €300 administrative fine will be imposed for any violation of this restriction.

Exemption: The restriction does not apply to permanent residents and people working in these areas when travelling to or from their home or workplace.

2. Immediate Fire Prevention Measures

In rural areas:
The following are strictly prohibited:

• Burning grass, vegetation, or rubbish.
• Lighting outdoor barbecues or grills.
• Beekeeping activities involving smoke or fire.
• Discarding lit cigarettes.
• Any work that may produce sparks, such as welding or metal cutting.

Near forests:

• Clear dry grass and leaves within a 10-metre radius around your home.
• Prune trees up to a height of 3 metres, and ensure branches are at least 5 metres away from the roof.
• Avoid using flammable materials in gutters or on window shutters.

3. In the Event of a Wildfire

If you notice a fire, call 199 or 112 immediately and provide the following information:

• Your exact location.
• The location of the fire and the direction in which it is spreading.
• The type of vegetation that is burning.

ELENI KORONAKI