Firefighters are currently battling a fire that started late Tuesday night in low vegetation along the Chelidonous stream on Karamanlis Avenue in the municipality of Acharnon, Attica. The fire spread to nearby businesses, causing significant damage, and a paper mill warehouse has become the primary focus of their efforts.

As early as 5am there was no front expanding, only small outbreaks. According to the fire department, the hardest part was the paper industry that continues to burn. The picture at the other businesses engulfed in flames was improved.

According to the mayor of Acharnon Spyros Vrettos, the fire entered at least two factories, one of timber, one of stationery and one of plastics.

“The fire has entered factories, there is a lot of wind. At least two plants are burning. One timber, paper and one with plastics. The fire started through the stream. The fire brigade forces are large and the neighboring municipalities are also helping,” Vrettos told protothema.gr earlier.
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Sixty firefighters with 17 vehicles and a hiking team immediately rushed to the scene, while the 112 number was also sounded twice. The fire brigade forces were reinforced shortly after midnight to 76 firefighters with 22 vehicles and a hiking team, and by 1 a.m. the forces operating at the scene were 88 firefighters with 24 vehicles and two hiking teams.

As far as the oncology hospital Agii Anargyri is concerned, the fire is not affecting it for the time being. However, the management of the 1st YPE and the hospital are in constant communication with the ECAC’s Operations Center as well as the fire department to be informed if they need to take action for the safety of patients and employees.

One of the messages from 112 urged those near the Chelidon Creek to stay indoors and close doors and windows because of the smoke. In particular the message said: “Fire in progress. Smoke is moving into your area. If you are near the Chelidon Creek stay indoors, close doors and windows . Follow the instructions of the authorities.”

If you are in the vicinity of any buildings, close your doors, close your windows, keep your doors closed and follow the instructions of authorities.

Earlier, a warning message was also sent via 112 asking people to remain alert and follow the instructions of the authorities.

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Continuous traffic restrictions are being carried out due to the ongoing fire.

Specifically, according to the police, due to a fire in a building on L. Karamanlis, vehicle diversions are being carried out on L. Karamanlis from the height of Fountoukias Street in the upstream direction and from the height of Dekelias Street in the downstream direction.

In addition, according to the police, vehicle diversions are being carried out in the area of Acharnon 1) at Karamanlis and Dekelias streets, 2) at Tatoi and Dekelias streets, 3) at Tatoi and Artemis streets and 4) at the Metamorfosi junction to Tatoi street.

Finally, according to a new police update, vehicle diversions are being carried out in the area of Acharnon, at the junction of Spyrou Vrettou and Cyprus Streets, in the direction of Spyrou Vrettou.