Greece: 88-year-old fined for accidental wildfire

An 88-year-old man faces a hefty fine after his careless actions sparked a wildfire in Grevena, Greece. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon in the Rachi area of Deskata municipality.

Authorities report that the elderly man was using an angle grinder when sparks ignited nearby vegetation. He was apprehended under the "in flagrante delicto" procedure and subsequently fined 1,546.88 euros.

This event underscores a broader issue of accidental fires in Greece. As of July 4, 2026, authorities have issued 516 administrative fines totaling 629,272.80 euros and made 156 arrests. The vast majority of these arrests, 143, are linked to fires caused by negligence, with only 13 attributed to intentional acts.

The Fire Service's Anti-Arson Crimes Directorate remains on high alert, conducting thorough checks and holding individuals accountable for violations. They urge citizens to strictly adhere to fire safety regulations and avoid any activities that could create sparks, emphasizing that responsible behavior is crucial for protecting lives, the environment, and property.