Heraklion fire service warns of critical understaffing as fire season begins

Monday, 1 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Crete's firefighters have raised concerns about serious understaffing at the Heraklion fire service at the start of the fire prevention season. Union representatives warn that the Heraklion station is critically short on personnel, creating gaps in fire response capacity across the region. The warning comes as summer heat and dry conditions raise wildfire risk across the island. Tourists visiting Crete during the summer months should be aware that fire danger is elevated, particularly in rural and forested areas. Visitors are advised to avoid lighting fires or barbecues outside designated areas, never discard cigarettes in vegetation, and follow any local fire risk alerts issued by authorities. In the event of a wildfire nearby, follow instructions from local emergency services and check road closures before traveling inland.