Two people have died and hundreds evacuated on a Greek island near Athens
More that 500 people have been evacuated from a Greek island(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Two people have died on a Greek island after twin fires broke out near Athens on Sunday. Hundreds of people were evacuated from their homes on the island of Salamina following high wildfire risk alerts in the area, seeing 500 people leave the island by sea.
The first fire was reported around at 2.40pm near the south coast followed by a separate fire 20 minutes later in the east. Greek fire officials have confirmed that firefighters attending the blaze found two bodies at the scene.
Whilst the cause of both fires remains unknown, the UK Foreign Office has offered advice for Brits travelling to Greece this summer as “there is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October.” For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is urging people to ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts to be warned of wildfires near your location whilst travelling to the popular destination.
Turning you alerts on will allow the Greek government’s Emergency Communication Service alerts to reach you.
In Greece causing a forest fire or wildfire is a criminal offence, even if unintentional.
To avoid starting wildfires:
- do not leave litter, especially not glass which is known to start fires
- make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished
- do not light barbecues
Be cautious if you are in or near an area affected by wildfires the FCDO advises:
- follow @112Greece for official updates
- follow the guidance of the emergency services
- call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
- contact your airline or travel operator who can assist you with return travel to the UK
