A large fire that broke out near Mouttayiaka in Limassol was successfully contained by the fire service on Sunday evening. The blaze began around noon and was brought under control by approximately 6pm, preventing further spread towards nearby homes.
Fire: Efforts on the Ground and in the Air
The firefighting operations were extensive, involving 11 fire engines from various stations including Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia, and the Vasiliko energy plant. Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the day, supported by a total of 62 personnel from the forestry department and Civil Defence, alongside volunteers from multiple agencies.
Aircraft and Ground Support Mobilised
In addition to ground crews, 11 aircraft were deployed to combat the flames from above. This combined effort was crucial as the fire approached residential areas, threatening homes and farms. The visibility of the smoke and flames from the highway underscored the seriousness of the situation.
Protecting Lives and Properties
Thanks to the swift action of the fire service, the risk to local properties was mitigated. Firefighters successfully protected both homes and agricultural land, ensuring that the fire did not result in significant damage to the community.
Strategic Response and Command
As the situation escalated, the fire service implemented the Ikarus 2 and Pyrsos protocols, establishing an Advanced Command Center to coordinate efforts effectively. This strategic approach allowed for better resource management and deployment of personnel in the field.
Ongoing Vigilance and Investigation
With the fire now contained, a strong force of firefighters will remain in the area overnight to monitor for any flare-ups. The cause of the blaze is still to be determined and will be investigated once the situation is fully resolved.
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