Greek Red Cross issues safety guidelines for wildfire victims

The Health Department of the Greek Red Cross released ten essential safety measures for residents affected by recent wildfires in western Attica and other parts of Greece. The advice covers the use of protective equipment such as special masks, long clothing, gloves and sturdy shoes, and recommends wetting burned material before cleaning to reduce inhalation of hazardous particles. It also instructs people to monitor for respiratory or cardiovascular symptoms—such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain or rapid heartbeat—and to seek medical help immediately if they appear.

Additional guidance includes discarding food exposed to heat, smoke or ash, following official instructions on drinking water, avoiding the use of refrigerated foods until power is restored, consuming dry packaged foods, and staying away from damaged power lines. Mobile health units staffed by Red Cross nurses were deployed to the affected areas, providing protective gear, first‑aid supplies and on‑site health support.