Newsroom
Most people would think twice before throwing hot barbecue coals into the garbage during a Cyprus heatwave. Unfortunately, someone near Prastio Kellaki apparently did not, and two hectares of pine forest paid the price.
A fire broke out in the Limassol-area community at about 3:30 a.m. Monday, forcing a large team of firefighters to battle the flames in steep, difficult terrain.
The fire is believed to have started in a garbage container where used charcoal had been discarded, Forestry Department spokesman Glafkos Kyriakou said.
The person responsible may have poured water over the coals and assumed they were safe. But charcoal can continue smoldering inside long after the flames disappear, even when it looks wet and cold from the outside.
In the middle of summer, with dry grass and trees ready to ignite, a single ember can be enough to start a forest fire.
The Forestry Department immediately sent 50 personnel, eight fire engines, three earthmovers, and two water tankers to the area.
Another 10 firefighters and five engines joined from the Fire Service, along with volunteers and machinery provided by the Limassol District Administration. Two leased firefighting aircraft attacked the flames from above.
Crews brought the fire fully under control by 7 a.m., about three and a half hours after it began. By then, two hectares of pine forest had burned.
Kyriakou reminded anyone planning a summer barbecue that used charcoal cannot simply be thrown into a garbage can once the cooking is finished.
Authorized picnic areas have designated structures where coals can be left safely. Anyone using a barbecue at home should clear away dry grass and other flammable material, supervise the coals and allow them to cool completely before disposal.
Monday’s fire was stopped before it became much larger. But putting it out required more than 60 professionals, 13 fire engines, heavy machinery, water tankers, volunteers and two aircraft.
It was a major operation apparently caused by one person failing to make sure the barbecue was truly over.
