Braving the blaze – the health toll paid by firefighters in Greece
Braving the blaze – the health toll paid by firefighters in Greece
Wildfires ravaged many parts of Greece this summer, endangering the health of firefighters and local communities.
Firefighters face significant health challenges during wildfire season – intense heat, smoke inhalation and strenuous physical demands put them at risk of respiratory problems and long-term health issues.
Konstantinos Tsigkas leads a fire service of approximately 17 000, including 12 000 permanent firefighters, 2500 seasonal firefighters and around 4000 volunteers.
“The health impacts of wildfires extend beyond immediate physical injuries,” he says. “Smoke can lead to respiratory issues, exacerbating existing conditions like asthma. In Greece, we've established a 112-emergency service to facilitate rapid evacuations, as smoke inhalation is extremely harmful.”
This year, the number of wildfires in Greece surged by 20% compared to last year.
Due to prolonged dry conditions, and a build-up of flammable materials in forests and on abandoned land, wildfires started early in the season and lasted into October.
“We firefighters, often deal with extreme temperatures and thick smoke, which can impair visibility and increase the risk of heat stress,” Konstantinos explains.
Despite using personal protective equipment, including smoke-filtering masks, many firefighters still experience respiratory conditions due to smoke exposure, he adds.
“In addition to physical injuries from the fires themselves, like burns or sprains, the mental toll on firefighters is significant,” he reports.
Wildfires also pose serious health risks to local communities.
Vulnerable groups, such as children and older people, are often a priority for evacuation to avoid smoke inhalation and anxiety.
“The smoke can cause respiratory problems, skin irritations and eye issues, particularly for children and the elderly,” says Konstantinos. “The destruction of homes and property can lead to significant mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. We must also provide them with psychological support, which is important for their emotional well-being after being evacuated from a fire.”
Prevention is crucial to mitigate these impacts
Forests need to be regularly maintained to remove flammable materials and reduce the risk of fire and its associated impacts on health, Konstantinos urges.
“Public education on fire safety and emergency preparedness is crucial,” he insists. “Communities must be aware of evacuation routes and safety protocols to minimize panic during a wildfire.”
Wildfires also degrade air quality, creating a hazardous environment for those with pre-existing health conditions. In addition, the long-term environmental impacts, such as soil erosion and habitat loss, amplify public health threats.
Ongoing training on health risks and safety is vital for firefighters.
Strong health monitoring and support systems, including psychological counselling, are crucial to tackling the mental health demands of the job. Konstantinos emphasizes the need for young firefighters to understand the physical and mental demands of the profession.
“They should always use personal protective equipment correctly and remain aware of their surroundings. Moreover, fostering a supportive community where mental health is prioritized can help them navigate the challenges of this rewarding yet demanding profession.”
Greece, and many other Member States of the WHO European Region will continue to confront wildfires fuelled by climate change. Addressing the health impacts on firefighters and communities is key to building resilience against future disasters.
Collaboration and support are needed to protect lives and properties and the health and well-being of those affected.