Operational plans for 2025 firefighting season presented

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has reported that Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the Ministry on 28 April 2025, ahead of the firefighting season starting on 1 May.

The Ministry stated that the Prime Minister was informed about updated operational plans including an increase in staffing levels, acquisition of new equipment, expanded drone deployment, and prevention activities aimed at addressing the risks posed by climate change.

According to the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, the Fire Brigade now has more than 18,000 permanent and seasonal firefighters, compared to approximately 15,500 personnel in 2022.

The Ministry also reported that the fleet of firefighting vehicles has grown by 270 over the last three years, reaching a total of 3,700.

Growth in drone bases and aerial monitoring capabilities

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection explained that drone use has expanded significantly to support early fire detection and rapid response efforts.

It reported that drone bases have increased from 45 to 80, with the unmanned aerial fleet now capable of operating in extreme weather conditions and equipped with thermal imaging cameras.

The Ministry added that drones would be deployed extensively in Attica and other vulnerable areas to assist with immediate detection and early intervention in case of fire outbreaks.

The Ministry noted that the “AIGIS” programme, aimed at modernising Civil Protection equipment and systems, is progressing with the intention to increase the number of contracted projects by the end of 2025.

Extension granted for land clearance deadlines

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection confirmed that due to prolonged rainfall, the deadline for land clearances has been extended until 15 June 2025.

It reported that land clearance activities are a critical element in fire prevention strategies, particularly near archaeological sites and around electricity transmission networks.

According to the Ministry, last year approximately 800,000 citizens completed plot cleanups, helping to prevent the spread of fires into urban areas.

The Ministry indicated that municipal authorities will closely monitor compliance with land clearance requirements, and fines will be imposed where necessary.

European cooperation and increased volunteer involvement

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection stated that Greece’s firefighting efforts will again be supported by approximately 300 personnel from five European countries.

It reported that the number of Forest Commando Units (EMODE) has grown from six in 2022 to 20 units, now comprising more than 1,500 members.

The Ministry highlighted that alongside professional staff, around 5,500 volunteers from organisations and 5,000 volunteer firefighters will support firefighting operations during the 2025 season.

It added that the General Secretariat of Civil Protection has been certifying voluntary actions, encouraging greater citizen participation in fire prevention and response.

Greece enhances firefighting capacity ahead of 2025 summer season: Summary

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection reported that Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the Ministry on 28 April 2025.

The visit aimed to review operational plans for the firefighting season beginning on 1 May 2025.

The Fire Brigade now includes more than 18,000 permanent and seasonal firefighters.

The Ministry reported an increase in firefighting vehicles to 3,700.

Drone deployment has expanded from 45 to 80 bases with new thermal imaging capabilities.

The “AIGIS” programme for modernising Civil Protection infrastructure continues its implementation.

The Ministry confirmed an extension to 15 June 2025 for land clearance deadlines.

Approximately 300 firefighters from five European countries will assist during the season.

The Ministry reported that more than 5,500 volunteers from organisations and 5,000 volunteer firefighters will support operations.

Forest Commando Units now total 20 with more than 1,500 personnel.

The Ministry emphasised the importance of citizen participation in land clearance and fire prevention.