May 1st is not just the beginning of spring. It also marks the official start of the wildfire season — a season that, for regions like Western Achaia, Aigialeia and Mount Erymanthos, brings yearly tension, concern and — far too often — painful consequences.
Wildfires are no longer unpredictable. In a changing climate, with rising temperatures and human negligence, they’ve become almost expected — which makes prevention more important than ever.
What’s New This Year – The New Law on Land Clearing
According to new legislation (Government Gazette B’ 192/31.01.2024), owners of plots, farmlands and other open spaces are now legally required to clear vegetation by April 30th each year, and to maintain the area clean throughout the entire fire season (May 1st – October 31st).
The penalties are strict:
👉 Fines of up to €10,000
👉 Immediate clearing by the municipality at the owner’s expense
👉 Criminal liability if a fire is caused by negligence
But this is not just a legal issue.
It’s a matter of life.
It’s Not “Just a Fire Somewhere Far Away” — It’s Right Next Door
Western Achaia, Aigialeia and Erymanthos have all experienced devastating fires in recent years, with crops, animals, homes — and even human lives — at risk. Dry weeds by the roadside, abandoned lots within villages, piles of rubble and garbage: these are ready-made fuels.
And it almost always starts from “nothing”:
– a cigarette tossed from a car window,
– a spark from a power tool,
– a frayed wire,
– or… simple indifference.
What We Can All Do
✅ Clear your plots, yards and open spaces — now
✅ Work with your local municipality to report hazardous areas
✅ Inform vulnerable neighbors who may not know their responsibilities
✅ Never burn dry grass or branches — fire does not forgive
And most importantly:
✅ Cultivate a culture of prevention — not just when we see smoke in the distance.
Responsibility doesn’t fall solely on the state or the fire services.
It also belongs to us — the residents, the landowners, the neighbors, the people who love this place.
📢 Don’t wait for the first fire truck to show up.
Be the first line of defense.