Fire brigade reports 94 per cent of fires due to human factor

The total number of fires rose by 6.51 per cent last year, while estimated losses climbed to €134.6 million, largely driven by a devastating summer wildfire in the foothills of Limassol, according to figures released on Friday by the fire brigade.

More than 94 per cent of fires were attributed to man-made factors.

The brigade responded to 13,401 calls for assistance during the year, covering fires, special services and false alarms.

Wildfires accounted for 3,569 incidents, an 8.81% increase on 2024, while urban fires rose by 4.31 per cent to 3,585.

Scorched land expanded sharply to 133.46 sq km, up from 16.47 sq km the previous year.

Around 120 sq km of this total was destroyed in a single July fire in Limassol.

Rural fires accounted for €120.6m of the total, with urban fires responsible for €14m.

By comparison, total losses in 2024 were €29.6m.

A brigade spokesperson said the Limassol fire “had a decisive impact on the overall damage figure for the year”.

Rural fires increased in the early months of 2025, linked to the prolonged drought as well as faulty chimneys and fireplaces.

During the main fire season from July to October, however, wildfire numbers fell.

The brigade credited prevention campaigns, public awareness through television and radio, and coordinated patrols with other authorities.

“These measures made a real difference during the critical months,” the spokesperson affirmed.

Unauthorised fire lighting accounted for 87.59 per cent of wildfires, which were categorised as arson.

Causes included deliberate burning, discarded cigarette butts, and cooking in prohibited areas.

Forty-five people were rescued, injured or killed in fires during the year, down from 61 in 2024.

The brigade also carried out 2,307 rescues linked to traffic collisions, workplace accidents and other incidents.