Fires: Citizens’ Protection Guide

Those citizens who live in areas affected by the fires must take measures to protect their health. By order of the regional governor and president of ISA George Patoulis, the operation of the telephone line 1110 was expanded, to provide instructions to citizens who face breathing or other problems due to the atmosphere burdened by smoke. At the same time, 1110 was reinforced with psychologists and psychiatrists, to provide free advice and support to citizens affected by the fires.

“Taking protective measures is necessary as the atmosphere due to the fires is particularly burdened in many areas of Attica. For this reason, great attention is required from citizens and especially from those who belong to vulnerable groups such as patients with respiratory or cardiovascular problems. The forces of the ISA are placed at the disposal of the citizens to provide assistance”, emphasizes Mr. Patoulis.

Precautions

Evacuation is the key measure, and if one lives near the affected areas, it is advisable to keep the windows of one’s home closed, so as to limit the entry of smoke indoors.

People with chronic respiratory problems, the elderly, pregnant women and small children need to pay particular attention not only in the areas adjacent to the fire outbreaks but also in wider Attica where there is smoke.

Regardless of whether someone is a chronic patient with respiratory problems or not, if symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe cough and increased sputum or dizziness occur, they should immediately contact their doctor.

Avoiding unnecessary movements is another important preventive measure. In case this is not possible, any movement must be done with the car and closed windows, while the air conditioning must be in the internal air recirculation option.

The use of a mask is necessary to protect against the toxic mixture of particles and gases, which is particularly dangerous.

At the same time, there needs to be continuous hydration of the body with water. If someone needs to be on the front line of a fire to offer help they should make sure they have access to water, moisten their eyes, nose and mouth regularly.

General Instructions

If you are a person with any chronic condition you should take the following steps to protect yourself from fire smoke:

During smoke from fires:
* Monitor public announcements and postings about air quality.
* Check your medication adequacy and make sure you build up a 7- to 10-day supply of prescription drugs in a waterproof, airtight box to take with you if you need to evacuate your residence or area.
* If you stay at home, avoid cooking, as frying or grilling can worsen indoor air pollution. Buy prepared or canned foods so you don’t have to cook.
* Follow the instructions regarding outdoor activity or sports, and especially the instructions for sensitive groups, no matter how far you are from the fires.
* Follow your doctor’s advice on asthma management if you have asthma.
* If you experience difficulty breathing or other symptoms that persist without improvement, make a timely decision to evacuate your home, without relying on the official evacuation instructions issued for the homes of the points and areas threatened by the fire front.

After the fire:
* Smoke can remain in the atmosphere for several days after a fire, so stay informed about the air quality in the area of ​​your home or where you live.
* Do not return home until you are told it is safe to do so.

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