In a coordinated operation on Tuesday, August 12, the Hellenic Coast Guard rescued 76 civilians and two animals from coastal areas of Chios and Kato Achaia affected by forest fires.

Under the direction of the Coast Guard Operations Center, in collaboration with the Unified Operations and Crisis Management Coordination Center, a total of 12 vessels and dozens of Coast Guard personnel were deployed in Chios.

The fire broke out in the forest area of Volissos, with flames threatening the coastal zones of Agia Markella, Managros, Limnia, and Lampsa. The operation involved six patrol boats, one rescue vessel, one patrol ship, and five private boats, which safely transported 56 people and one animal to the fishing shelters of Lithi and Lagada.

In Kato Achaia, the fires affected the areas of Platani, Kaminia, Tsoukalaika, and Vrachneika. Three patrol boats, one anti-pollution vessel, and private boats rescued 20 civilians and one animal from the shores of Kato Alissos, Alykes, and Kaminia, taking them to the southern port of Patras.

Patrol boats remain on standby for any further rescue needs.