PROTECTION GUIDELINES
All information comes from the official website of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection of Greece.
You can find instructions - directions on how to prepare or act in case of any of the following phenomena below.
EARTHQUAKES
LANDSLIDES
FOREST FIRES
FLOODS
SEVERE WEATHER PHENOMENA
VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS
INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS
C.B.R.N  ACCIDENTS
Earthquakes
GETTING PREPARED


 
If you are indoors


    

  • Fasten shelves and bookcases to the walls. Remove from the doors tall furniture that could be overturned and block the exit.
    • 

  • Screw well fuel and water tanks and heaters to the walls.
    • 

  • Place heavy objects on lower shelves.
    • 

  • Remove heavy objects from above beds and sofas.
    • 

  • Fix well all lights and ceiling fans.
    • 

  • Locate safe spots in each room of the house:
    - under sturdy desks or tables,
    - away from glass surfaces and bookcases,
    - away from exterior walls.
    • 

  • Check the correct function of the electric and gas network.
    • 

  • Inform family members how to turn off electricity, water, gas and on the emergency numbers (112, 199, 166, 100, etc).
    • 

  • Be equipped with a portable radio with batteries, a torch and a first aid kit.
     
    • 



 
If you are outdoors


    

  • After the earthquake, agree to meet outdoors at a specific place that is safe and away from:
    • 

  • - buildings and trees,
    - electric and telephone cables.
     
    • 



DURING THE EARTHQUAKE
 
If you are indoors


    

  • Stay calm.
    • 

  • Take cover under sturdy furniture (table, desk), kneel and hold its leg with your hands.
    • 

  • If there is no sturdy furniture around, kneel in the middle of the room, lower your height as much as possible and protect your head and nape with your hands. Move away from large glass surfaces (windows, glass dividers), furniture or objects that could injure you.   
    • 

  • Do not attempt to go out of the house.
    • 

  • Do not go out on the balcony.
     
    • 



If you are in a tall building


    

  • Move away from glass and exterior walls.
     
    • 



 If you are in a recreation place, store or mall


    

  • Stay calm.
    • 

  • Stay indoors until the earthquake stops.
    • 

  • Stay away from the panicked crowd moving disorderly toward the exits because of risk of being trampled.
    • 



If you are outdoors


    

  • Move away from buildings, electric or telephone cables.
    • 

  • Cover your head with a briefcase or a purse available.
     
    • 



If you are in a moving vehicle


    

  • Drive to an open space and stop the car carefully so as not to obstruct traffic.
    • 

  • Avoid tunnels, bridges or pedestrian overpasses.
    • 



 
AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE
 
If you are inside


    

  • Be prepared for aftershocks.
    • 

  • Check if you or anyone around you is injured.
    • 

  • Do not move seriously injured persons.
    • 

  • Evacuate the building using the stairs (do not use the elevator), after switching off the electricity, gas and water.
    • 

  • Go towards an open and safe space.
    • 

  • Follow the instructions of the authorities and do not pay attention to rumors.
    • 

  • Do not drive unless there is an emergency, so as not to block the work of the rescuers.
    • 

  • Use your land line or mobile telephone only in emergency to avoid network overload.
    • 

  • Avoid entering your home if you notice damages, gas leakage or any cables destroyed.
     
    • 



IN CASE OF A TSUNAMI
 
If you are close to a seaside with low altitude


    

  • Not all earthquakes cause a tsunami. However, when you feel an earthquake, stay alert.
    • 

  • Observe if there is a significant rise or fall of the water level. This phenomenon is a physical warning for an oncoming tsunami.
    • 

  • After a strong earthquake leave the seashore and go towards mainland areas of higher altitude. A relatively small-sized tsunami at parts of the coastline could be transformed into an extremely dangerous one in a distance of several kilometers.
    • 

  • Stay away from seaside areas until you are informed by the competent authorities that the danger is over. A tsunami is not a single wave but a series of waves with different time of arrival at the seashore.
    • 

  • Do not approach the shore in order to watch a tsunami coming. When you see the tsunami coming, it will probably be too late to avoid it.
    • 

Landslides
PREPAREDNESS FOR LANDSLIDES AND SOIL SUBSIDENCE

 


Areas with greater risk of landslide




    

  • In areas of previous landslides.
    • 

  • On top or at the base of steep slopes or hillsides.
    • 

  • At the base or on top of embankments and excavations.
    • 

  • Strong shaking of the ground caused by earthquakes can cause landslides or intensify their impact.
     
    • 



Before the onset of the landslide


    

  • Landslides usually occur in areas where they have happened in the past. Ask for information on landslides in your area, and possibly seek a detailed expert opinion on the area where your property is located.
    • 

  • If your home is within an area with an increased risk for the occurrence of landslide, minimize the risk by planting the slopes within your property and constructing retaining walls.

     
    

    • 



If you suspect an imminent risk of landslide.


    

  • Contact the local authorities, the Fire Service, the Police or the Technical Works Directorate. Local authorities are best placed to assess a potential risk.
    • 

  • Inform your neighbors. They may not be aware of the possible risks.
    • 

  • If you are in dangerous areas for landslides and mudslides, inquire about the possible escape routes. Remember however that driving during heavy rain is very dangerous.
    • 

  • Stay informed from the media and the Internet about warnings related to phenomena of intense or prolonged rainfall. After periods of prolonged rainfall the risk of landslides is increased.

     
    

    • 



During the landslide


    

  • Move as quickly as possible away from the event area of the landslide.
    • 

  • If you stay at home, move to higher floors.
    • 

  • If you cannot leave, sit on the floor in a fetal position and protect your head.
    • 

  • Be prepared to move quickly. Give priority to your own safety and not to your possessions.
    • 

  • Stay alert and vigilant while driving. The curbs along the roads are particularly susceptible to landslides and rockfalls. Pay attention to the road for possible signs of soil subsidence, collapse, rockfalls etc.

     
    

    • 



After the landslide


    

  • Stay away from the area of the landslide. There may be a risk of new landslide event.
    • 

  • Monitor local radio or television stations for the latest information on dealing with emergencies arising from the onset of the landslide.
    • 

  • Check for injured and trapped people around the event area of the landslide, without entering the actual area of the landslide. Direct rescue teams to the positions of the trapped.
    • 

  • Check for damage to utility networks, roads, railways and report damage to the competent authorities.
    • 

  • Check for damage to the critical points for the statics of your home.
    • 

Forest Fires
GETTING PREPARED


If you are in the countryside


    

  • Don’t burn litter or dry vegetation and small branches (twigs) during the summer.
    • 

  • Don’t use open-air barbecues in forests or places close to dry vegetation during the summer.
    • 

  • Avoid open-air activities that may cause fire (i.e. torch weld, wheel or other instruments that create sparks).
    • 

  • Never throw lit cigarettes in open-air places.
    • 

  • Don’t leave rubbish in the forest. There is danger of ignition.
    • 

  • Respect the signs prohibiting access in periods of high risk.
     
    • 



If your home lies inside or near a forest or a forest area


    

  • Create a fire break around your home by clearing dry leaves and vegetation, pine-needles, branches etc at least within a 10 meter radius of your house.
    • 

  • Prune the trees up to the height of 3 meters, according to their age and condition.
    • 

  • Remove all dry branches from the trees and the bushes.
    • 

  • Prune the trees within a 5 meter radius from your home so that their branches don’t lean on the walls, on the roof or the balconies.
    • 

  • Space out around the building the woody vegetation so that the branches of one tree are at least 3 meters apart from another. For greater protection, remove the woody and bushy vegetation around the building at a distance of at least 10 meters, provided that the clearing of natural vegetation for the necessary protection of buildings is not contrary to the forest legislation provisions.
    • 

  • Don’t install plastic drain spouts or pipes to the walls of the building.
    • 

  • Protect the windows and the glass doors by installing shutters from non-flammable materials.
    • 

  • Cover the chimneys and the ventilation pipes with non-flammable material so that the sparks will not penetrate the interior of the building.
    • 

  • Don’t store flammable objects close to the house.
    • 

  • Keep the fire-wood in closed and protected places.
    • 

  • Don’t build uncovered fuel tanks close to the house.
    • 

  • Be equipped with the appropriate fire-extinguishers and take care of their maintenance.
    • 

  • Be equipped with a water hose with length proportional to the area you want to protect.
    • 

  • Be equipped with a water tank, a simple non-electric powered pump and a water hose.
     
    • 



If you notice fire


    

  • Call IMMEDIATELY the Fire Service call center (199) and give clear information about:
    - the location and the exact point where you are,
    - the location, the exact point and the direction of  fire,
    - the kind of vegetation that is burning.
    • 



 


GETTING PREPARED


If fire is approaching your home


    

  • Stay calm.
    • 

  • Remove all the flammable materials from around the building to closed and protected places.
    • 

  • Close all the passages (chimneys, windows, doors etc) to prevent sparks entering the building.
    • 

  • Shut off all the gas and liquid-fuel supplies inside and outside the building.
    • 

  • Close the awnings on the balconies and the windows.
    • 

  • Open the gate of the garden to facilitate the fire fighting vehicle access.
    • 

  • Put a ladder outside the building so that someone is able to climb immediately on the roof. The ladder should be placed at the opposite side of the fire direction.
    • 

  • Connect the water hoses with the taps outside the building and spread them so that the perimeter of the building is covered.
    • 

  • If visibility is reduced, switch on the interior and exterior lights of the building in order to be more visible through smoke.
     
    • 



If fire has reached your home


    

  • Do not abandon the building unless your escape is completely secured.
    • 

  • Do not take shelter in a car. The possibility of survival in a building constructed by non flammable materials is greater than that inside a vehicle close to smoke and fire.
    • 

  • If you stay indoors:
    - Close firmly all the doors and windows.
    - Block up all the cracks with wet clothes, in order to prevent smoke penetration.
    - Remove the curtains from the windows.
    - Move any furniture into the center of the residence away from windows and exterior doors.
    - Close all interior doors to slow down the fire spreading in the building.
    - Fill up the bathtub, wash-basins and buckets so that you have spare water.
    - Gather all together in one room.
    - Keep a torch and spare batteries at hand in case of electric power failure.
    • 

  • If your home is made of wood, seek shelter in a fire-resistant building.
    • 

  • If organised relocation is ordered, strictly follow the instructions and the routes suggested by the Authorities.
     
    • 



After the fire is extinguished


    

  • Get out of the house and at once put out the remaining hot spots.
    • 

  • Inspect for at least 48 hours, at regular intervals, the perimeter and the exterior of the building for possible re-ignitions.
    • 

Floods
 




GETTING PREPARED


If you live in an area with flood problems in the past




 In case of severe rainfall warning:


    

  • Make sure that the water drains and rain spouts outside your house are not blocked and operate properly.
    • 

  • Limit traveling as much as possible and avoid working or living in underground places.

     
    

    • 



DURING THE FLOOD


If you are indoors


    

  • Avoid underground places and move to a secure higher point.

     
    

     
    

    • 



If you are outdoors


    

  • Do not cross torrents on foot or by car
    • 

  • Stay away from electric wires.
    • 

  • Abandon your car if it gets immobilized as it might be swept away or flooded.
    • 

  • Avoid areas where landslides have occurred.

     
    

    • 



AFTER THE FLOOD


If you are outdoors


    

  • Stay away from flooded areas or areas dangerous to flood in the next hours
    • 

  • The flood is likely to have changed the known area characteristics and waters might have swept away parts of the streets, the pavements etc.
    • 

  • Dangers are imminent from broken pavements, areas with dangerous slope, mudslides etc.
    • 

  • The water is likely to be polluted from rubbish, dead animals or other materials.
    • 

  • Be careful not to obstruct rescue crews.
    • 

  • Don’t approach areas where landslides and rock falls have occurred.
    • 

  • Check if your house or place of work runs the risk of a possible fall of rocks.

     
    

    • 



If it’s absolutely necessary to walk or to drive in flooded areas


    

  • Try to find solid ground.
    • 

  • Avoid moving waters.
    • 

  • If you see a flooded street, stop and change direction.
    • 

  • Avoid stagnant waters that could be electric-current conductors if there are underground power cables or leaks.
    • 

  • Follow the authorities’ instructions.

     
    

    • 



What to do during restoration of damages

 


Before you begin restoration works




    

  • Remember: Even when flood waters recede danger still exists.
    • 

  • Contact the Authorities to ensure that the location of your home or your place of employment is safe to return, particularly if there was prior evacuation.
    • 

  • Switch off the electric supply even if the power company has switched off the whole area.
    • 

  • Turn off the water supply in case of potential damage to the water supply.

     
    

    • 



To inspect a flooded building


    

  • Wear protective shoes so as not to get injured from objects or irregularities of the ground hidden by water.
    • 

  • Examine the walls, doors, stairs and windows.
    • 

  • Check the networks of electric power, water and drainage systems.
    • 

Severe Weather Phenomena
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS


    

  • Be constantly informed by radio and television on the progress of the phenomena. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection and the National Meteorological Service are the formal sources of information.
    • 

  • In case of emergency call alternatively: the Police (100), the Fire Service (199) the National Center for Emergency Care/ EKAB (166) or the European Emergency Call Number (112).
    • 

  • Place the above mentioned phone numbers in a visible position inside the house and make sure that your children are informed of them, if they are able to use them.
    • 

  • Help your children learn important family data such as their last name, the address and the phone number of your home.
    • 

  • Explain to all family members when and how to switch off electric power, natural gas and water supply, how to use the fire-extinguisher and how to call for help.
    • 

  • Be equipped with  emergency equipment, such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, torch and batteries, a portable radio etc.
    • 

  • Take special care of children and the elderly.

     
    

    • 



AFTER THE BAD WEATHER


    

  • Be constantly informed by radio and television for formal warnings or advice.
    • 

  • Check the house and the rest of your property to draw up a list of eventual damages.

     
    

    • 



If you are going to travel


    

  • Be informed of the weather and the condition of the roads.
    • 

  • Be prepared, according to your destination, for any weather phenomena you may encounter (snow, ice, hail, rainfall, etc.)
    • 

  • Plan your movement in a way not to coincide with the peak of the weather phenomena.
    • 

  • Travel during the day and prefer highways avoiding deserted and difficult to access roads.
    • 

  • Inform all your relatives of the itinerary you intend to follow.
    • 

  • Don’t ignore the instructions of the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, the weather forecasts and the instructions of the Authorities, such as the Traffic Police, the Port Authority, the Fire Service, etc.
    • 

  • Check the condition of your car before attempting any movement.
    • 

  • Equip your car with all necessary equipment in order to face any heavy weather phenomena (tire chains, anti-freeze, umbrellas, raincoats, rubber boots, a torch, first aid kit etc).
    • 

  • If you have to move on foot, put on suitable clothes and shoes.
    • 

  • Be careful when walking in order to avoid being injured due to the slipperiness of the roads and pavements or due to objects falling by the wind or hail.
    • 

  • Prefer public transport.
    • 

  • Remain calm and be patient. Panic makes the situation worse.
    • 

  • Facilitate the work of the Authorities.

     
    

    • 



SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR EACH PHENOMENON


 


STRONG WINDS


GETTING PREPARED


Before and during gale force winds


    

  • Secure all objects that may be swept along by the wind causing damages or injuries.
    • 

  • Secure any billboards you may have installed.
    • 

  • Secure doors and windows in your home or workplace.
    • 

  • Avoid activities at shore and coastal areas.
    • 

  • Avoid passing under big trees, under suspended signs and generally near areas where light objects (such as flower pots, broken glasses etc) may fall on the ground (i.e., under balconies etc).

     
    

    • 



STORMS


DURING THE STORM


If indoors


    

  • Secure all objects that may be carried away by the wind or the heavy rain and cause damage or injuries.
    • 

  • Secure all suspended signs and billboards.
    • 

  • Secure doors and windows.
    • 

  • Do not hold electric equipment or the telephone as thunder may pass through the wires. TV sets should be unplugged from antenna and power supply.
    • 

  • Avoid touching water pipes (kitchen, bathroom) as they are good electricity conductors.

     
    

    • 



If outdoors


    

  • Seek refuge in a building or a car, otherwise sit on the ground without lying down.
    • 

  • If you are in the woods, protect yourself under the dense branches of low trees.
    • 

  • Never stand under a tall tree in an open space.
    • 

  • If you are in low land, be careful as a flood may occur.
    • 

  • Don’t stand close to transmission pylons, tall trees, fences, telephone cables and electric lines.
    • 

  • Avoid being close to metal objects (such as cars, bicycles, camping equipment, etc).
    • 

  • Stay away from rivers, lakes or other water bodies.
    • 

  • If you are in the sea, get out quickly.
    • 

  • If you are isolated on a plane area and feel your hair stand up (a fact that indicates the imminent occurrence of lightning), assume duck position, burry your head between legs (to minimize the surface of your body and the contact with ground) and throw away any metal objects you carry.

     
    

    • 



 In a vehicle


    

  • Stop the car by the roadside away from trees that may fall on the car.
    • 

  • Stay in the car and turn on the emergency lights until the storm stops.
    • 

  • Close the windows and do not touch metal objects in the car.
    • 

  • Avoid flooded roads.

     
    

    • 



DURING HAIL


Protect yourself immediately. Do not leave the safe place unless you make sure that the storm has stopped. Hail can also be very dangerous for animals


Evaluation of the distance from the storm


    

  • Calculate the time between the lightning and the thunder in seconds. Divide the time calculated by 3 in order to calculate the distance of the storm in kilometers.
    • 

  • Take all necessary measures quickly, before the storm reaches you. This distance is indicative as the storm may appear very quickly above the area where you are.
     
    • 



SNOWFALL


Before the snowfall or the snowstorm


If you live in a mountainous or difficult to access area facing problems by snowfalls


    

  • Be equipped with heating materials and food provisions for several days.
    • 

  • Be equipped with the necessary equipment to remove the snow (i.e. shovels).

     
    

    • 



DURING THE SNOWFALL OR THE SNOWSTORM


If you are indoors


    

  • Keep your house warm and stay indoors, as much as possible.
    • 

  • Do not let children go out unaccompanied.
    • 

  • Put on suitable clothes and shoes.
    • 

  • Inspect the water supply as well as the pipes and solar heater panels.
     
    • 



In a vehicle


    

  • Avoid driving in rough mountain areas.
    • 

  • Change your itinerary if there is a strong snowfall and you are in a rough road.
    • 

  • Keep a safe distance from the vehicles in front of you.
    • 

  • Stay in the car if it has stopped. Put a bright colored cloth on the radio antenna or other visible spot so that the rescue teams can locate you. Start the engine for 10 minutes per hour and remove snow from the exhaust.
    • 



 If outdoors


    

  • Go to a safe place without exposing yourself to the snowstorm.
    • 

  • Dress in layers of light and warm clothing instead of one heavy layer. Put on warm and waterproof boots. Prefer waterproof overcoat.
    • 

  • Be extremely careful when moving in areas where snowfalls are expected to occur.
    • 

  • If it is absolutely necessary to drive, use tire chains. Prefer to travel during the day. Use highways and inform your relatives of your itinerary.
    • 

  • If you need to travel in the city, prefer public transport.
    • 



 


FROST


GETTING PREPARED


    

  • Special attention is required in the areas where frost has been created when you drive. Be informed in advance, for the road network situation and make sure that you carry tire chains.
    • 

  • If you are on foot wear suitable shoes and be careful so as to avoid injury because of slippery roads, pavements etc.
    • 



Residential water supply grids


Learn where exactly your water-meter is. Observe carefully where the central and the circumferential water valves (switches of your building) are situated. Inspect and make sure that all water supply valves switch on and off and work properly.


    

  • Make sure the external pipes (e.g. solar heater, balcony taps) are insulated. In the opposite case, you must take care that they are insulated the soonest possible.
    • 

  • If you are going to be absent for a long time during winter insulate or better drain the network of the solar–water heating system. In addition regulate the heating system of your building, in order to be operated automatically in low temperatures.
    • 

  • In case you have a solar–water heating system take care during the frost (especially at night) to switch off the water supply towards the boiler and empty out the water from the system. 
    • 

  • Don’t waste water to remove the snow or the frost.
    • 

  • Try to limit the daily activities that demand increased water consumption (such as washing machines etc).
    • 

  • Learn whether the manufacturing company or a technician has put anti-freeze liquid in your solar water heater (in the case of closed circuit). If not, get the proper anti-freeze and put it.
    • 

  • Make sure that there is no tap or toilet leakage otherwise repair them immediately.
    • 

  • Be sure that the drains in the balconies and terraces are clean from leaves and rubbish and operate normally.
    

     
    

    • 



In case the central pipes freeze


    

  • Switch off immediately the central valve of water-supply of your building and check your water-meter. If it continues to “run”, this means that there is leakage in your network. Switch off immediately the central water supply valve and call a plumber.
    • 

  • If you decide to defrost the pipes, start from the part of pipe near the valve so that the temperature change is gradual. If there are no results call a plumber.
    • 

  • Check if the electrical installations are wet or in danger and insulate them.
    • 



 


HEAT WAVE
 


DURING A HEATWAVE


    

  • Αvoid sunbathing and remain in shaded and cool places avoiding crowded places.
    • 

  • Avoid heavy physical work, particularly in places with high temperature, no wind and great humidity. Avoid walking for a long period of time or running under the sun.
    • 

  • Prefer light, comfortable and light colored clothing from porous material in order to facilitate the airing of the body and the vaporization of sweat. Wear a hat or other head gear from natural material that permits the good airing of the head. Wear black or dark colored glasses with special layer which protect the eyes from the reflection of the sun.
    • 

  • Prefer small and light meals, with emphasis on fruits and vegetables. Limit fatty foods.
    • 

  • Drink large amounts of liquids (water and fruit juices). If sweating is intense, add salt to your food. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
    • 

  • Have many lukewarm showers during the day and place wet washcloths on your head and neck.
    • 

  • Take care of family members suffering from chronic diseases (respiratory, cardiovascular etc). Consult their doctor for the application of special instructions. For those who take medicines also consult their doctor.
    • 

  • Avoid long travels with public transport when the heat is at very high levels.
     
    • 



CARE FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN


    

  • Dress them as lightly as possible. Make sure their hands and feet are free and not covered by nappies.
    • 

  • Make sure they are not exposed to the sun after swimming and they always wear a hat.
    • 

  • In addition to milk, it is recommended they drink other liquids as well. Consult your pediatrician.
    • 

  • As far as children are concerned, make sure they drink a lot of fluids (water and juices) and they eat more vegetables and fruits and fewer fats.
     
    • 



CARE FOR ELDERLY PERSONS


    

  • Move them to cooler places or areas (seaside or mountain), as a very hot and damp environment becomes dangerous. Alternatively, take care that they stay in lower apartments of multi-storey houses.
    • 

  • During nighttime keep the house open so that it is cooled and during daytime keep it hermetically closed.
    • 

  • Don’t leave elderly persons alone during summer vacations or during many days’ absence from home. In the opposite case, make sure that a person takes care of them.
    • 

Volcanic Eruptions


PREPAREDNESS FOR VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS
The volcanic risk in Greece is limited to the active volcanoes of Santorini and Nisyros and within a few tens of kilometers from these.


 






BEFORE THE ERUPTION




    

  • Be prepared for the phenomena that accompany volcanic eruptions, such as ejection of rock, pyroclastic flows (condensed volcanic ash moving at high speeds), mudflows, landslides, earthquakes, emission of toxic gases, volcanic ash fall and tsunami.
    • 

  • If you live in an area near a volcano have a family evacuation plan and select an appropriate escape route according to the instructions of the authorities.
     
    • 



DURING THE ERUPTION

 


If you find yourself in close proximity to the eruption




    

  • Withdraw immediately and move to areas with relatively high altitude, since there is a high probability of ejection of rock, lava flows and pyroclastic flows, as well as emission of toxic gases.
    • 

  • Carefully follow the instructions for evacuation of the area given by the authorities.
     
    • 



If you find yourself at a good distance from the eruption but there is fall of volcanic ash

 


 Indoors




    

  • Stay informed from the media and the Internet about whether to evacuate the area or remain in covered spaces.
    • 

  • Close all doors and windows. Place wet towels under the doors and seal with duct tape doors and windows that do not close airtight.
    • 

  • If you suffer from chronic respiratory problems, stay inside and avoid unnecessary exposure to volcanic ash. Wear disposable mask to protect yourself from volcanic ash that may have penetrated the interior.
    • 

  • If you experience irritation to the eyes, nose or throat immediately leave the area because the irritation is probably due to the presence of toxic gases. When you find yourself in an area without high concentration of toxic gases the irritation ceases.
    • 

  • If you can, avoid driving. Volcanic ash creates problems for internal combustion engines and makes the roads especially slippery. If driving is necessary, drive at a reduced speed, with elevated windows and no air conditioning. Use fog lights and plenty of liquid on the windshield wipers.
    • 

  • If you are in a coastal area move to areas with higher altitude as various phenomena that accompany a volcanic eruption can cause water gravity waves (tsunamis).

     
    

    • 



Outdoors


    

  • Wear full coverage clothing, protective safety glasses and disposable mask to protect yourself from volcanic ash.
    • 

  • Try to take cover indoors. If this is not possible, cover your head to protect yourself from falling volcanic materials of larger size.
    • 

  • If you can, avoid driving, otherwise drive according to the instructions given above.
     
    • 



AFTER THE ERUPTION


    

  • Stay indoors, especially if you have a chronic respiratory problem.
    • 

  • Continue to wear protective safety glasses and disposable mask.
    • 

  • Continue to wear full coverage clothing.
    • 

  • Remove the volcanic ash from your roof since it may become too heavy and cause a collapse.
    • 

  • Remove the volcanic ash from the exterior and the interior of your home.
    • 

Industrial Accidents
General Instructions for Self-Protection from Industrial Accidents


Below are General Instructions for self-protection that should be followed in the event of an industrial accident. Please note that, in addition to the above general instructions, further site-specific information is posted by the individual operators for each site falling under the provisions of SEVESO III (SEVESO site). Such information may be found at the website of the corresponding Region.


BE INFORMED


In the case of an industrial accident where hazardous substances are involved, the competent Authorities, following the relevant recommendation from the head of the Fire Service on site, decide on the safest measure that should be implemented, as the case may be, with the aim of protecting the life and health of the citizens, i.e.:


    

  • stay in safe indoor areas or
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  • proactive/organised evacuation.
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Note that in order for the head of the Fire Service on site to assess the safest measure between staying indoors or evacuating the citizens in an organised manner, different factors are considered, such as any sampling or metering results, the required time for an organised evacuation in relation to the time/space distribution of the toxic cloud concentration, the potential impact of the chemicals on humans, the vulnerability of the area surrounding the establishment etc.
 
Therefore, it is important to:


    

  • Study, become familiar with and carry out the General Instructions provided below, as well as the Seveso Site-specific self-protection Instructions posted on the website of the corresponding Region, until you receive any Special Instructions during an accident.
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  • In the event of an accident, follow only the instructions given by the competent Authorities via the mass media and social media.
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Everyone should be familiar with the following General Instructions and especially those living, passing through or frequently spending time in areas where there are:


    

  • Industrial sites handling dangerous substances (subject or not to the provisions of the Seveso-III Directive).
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  • Transportation axes used for transporting dangerous substances.
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  • Ice skating rinks and large industrial refrigerators.
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  • Water treatment plants where gas chloride is used.
     
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WHAT TO DO


A. Before an industrial accident


Be prepared


    

  • Study, become familiar with and carry out the Seveso Site-specific self-protection Instructions posted on the website of the corresponding Region.
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  • After reading these instructions, discuss the matter with everyone in your family.
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  • Gather the following items or make sure it is easy to gather them fast in one room:

      

    • Adhesive insulating tape (paper tape), to seal the door and window frame gaps (in case of a toxic cloud).
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    • Scissors.
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    • Plastic sheets (cut-down to size) or plastic garbage bags to cover the openings of the air-conditioning units.
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    • Towels and small cloths.
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    • Flashlight with batteries (the batteries should be stored next to the flashlight, otherwise they should be regularly checked), for the event of a power failure.
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    • First aid kit.
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    • Necessary medicines for anyone in the family.
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    • Other supplies that may be specifically required.
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  • Select the room of your home that offers maximum protection. Take into consideration that the room should:
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  • Be at the centre of your home.
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  • Have the minimum number of windows and doors, which should shut tightly.
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  • Communicate with the main bathroom or half-bathroom.
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  • Not have its windows on the danger side (establishment or street).
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  • Not have any openings for air exchange with the environment (i.e. fireplace, air-conditioning units, ventilation openings etc.).
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  • Be on the highest floor possible (most toxic gases, as they are heavier than air, move towards the lower air layers).
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  • Check the preselected room for leaks (if there is any air ingress) on a windy day. Permanently seal the window openings with duct tape, so the room offers a high level of protection.
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  • Drive cautiously around industrial establishments or vehicles transporting dangerous materials.
     
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B. During an industrial accident, wherever you are, follow the General Instructions below:


    

  • Remain calm and try to calm those next to you.
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  • Stay or immediately move to a safe, enclosed space, and avoid movement on the streets. The aim is to protect yourself from dangerous chemicals that may enter your home, from potential explosions (primary and secondary fragments) and from thermal radiation.
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  • Shut any doors (inside and outside) and windows tightly. Shut down any ventilators and air-conditioning units.
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  • Prepare wet towels to protect yourself in the event of exposure to inhalation irritants.
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  • Extinguish any flames, turn-off the gas stove and do not smoke.
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  • In any event, watch the media and stay connected on social media. Trust only official announcements and only follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
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  • In the event of an accident at a SEVESO-site, follow the Specific Self-protection Instructions, posted on the website of the corresponding Region.
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  • Wait for the competent Authorities to provide information regarding the use of tap water or drink only bottled water.
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  • Do not go to the scene of the accident.
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  • Avoid calling the Authorities or friends and relatives on the phone, unless you need immediate assistance. Unnecessary phone use keeps lines busy and prevents use in an emergency.
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  • Do not expose yourself or others to dangers.
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  • If you are inside a building away from your home, implement the emergency plan of that building.
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In particular:


I.   If you are at home and have the time


    

  • Shut tightly any windows, window shutters and curtains, as well as the outside and inside doors of your home, without locking them.
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  • Do not go near the windows for any reason. There is a risk of injury from broken glass.
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  • Extinguish any flames, turn off the air-conditioning, whether part of a central system or not, and also turn off the ventilation systems, kitchen extractor, fans and any heating/cooling system.
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  • If you suspect a leak of flammable gases, turn off the main electrical power and natural gas switches, to prevent a potential explosion.
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  • Cover the air-conditioning units with plastic garbage bags.
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  • Do not use gas cylinders.
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  • Do not smoke.
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  • Bring your pets inside your home.
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  • Seal any door and window frame gaps (on all four sides) with adhesive insulating tape (paper tape) or any other available means. In addition or alternatively, you can use wet towels or blankets, plastic sheets, aluminium foil or wax paper (baking paper).
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  • Cover the keyhole and door handle with paper tape.
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  • Using paper tape and plastic sheets, tightly seal the fireplace vents, the kitchen fan, all heating systems, air inlets and ventilation systems, and all doors and windows. In addition or alternatively, you can use wet towels or blankets, aluminium foil or wax paper (baking paper).
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  • Do not use the elevator (it acts as a pump, drawing air to the inside of the building).
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  • Go to your preselected room.
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  • If, despite your efforts, dangerous gases enter the building, fold a wet towel or cloth several times over, cover your mouth and nose, and take short breaths in order to filter the air you are inhaling. Alternatively, use the shower.
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  • Let your neighbours know about the danger.
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  • Watch the media and stay connected on social media. Trust only official announcements and only follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
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Dangers from staying at home


    

  • In the event of an industrial accident where toxic gases are released, shutting all doors (inside and outside) achieves a high degree of protection, provided that the chemically polluted air is kept out of the home. Any polluted air entering the home can have very serious consequences on human health. Given that for many chemicals the lethal dose is extremely low, it follows that even brief exposure to a chemical substance can cause irreparable health damage. Therefore, it is extremely important to properly seal off any door and window frame gaps. Moreover, all of the above must be done as soon as possible, without letting valuable time go to waste.
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  • However, as soon as the danger is over, it is just as important to quickly and properly air your home, to clear it from all the air that was polluted with toxic substances.
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II.    If you are in your car


    

  • Close your windows and keep them shut, turn off the air-conditioning and ventilation system and close any air vents. This way, you get some short-term protection.
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  • In case you can leave the area, stay inside your car and drive carefully.
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  • In case you cannot leave the area and there is a safe building nearby, park your car at a spot where it does not obstruct traffic and enter the building. If there is no safe building nearby, remain calm and stay in your car.
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  • Watch the media and stay connected on social media. Trust only official announcements and only follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
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ΙΙΙ. If you are away from a safe building and near the accident site


    

  • Leave the accident site as soon as possible.
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If you are…


    

  • Down-wind of the accident (area B in the following drawing), leave moving vertically to the wind direction or water flow.
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  • Up-wind of the accident (area A in the following drawing), leave moving against the wind direction or water flow.
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  • As a general rule, move to higher ground, since many toxic substances are heavier than air.
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  • Do not walk on and do not unnecessarily touch surfaces where the leaked substance is on.
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  • Do not smoke.
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  • Cover up your body as much as possible.
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  • Filter the air you are breathing from dangerous gasses, dust or droplets, by covering your mouth and nose with a folded towel or cloth or a mask, and taking short breaths.
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  • Watch the media and stay connected on social media. Trust only official announcements and only follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
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      IV.    If you see an accident and after moving to a safe distance




    

  • Call the Fire Service at 199.
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  • Give precise details (location, distance from the accident site, name, contact number, etc.) and describe the incident.
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  • Note:
    • 



    

  • If there are any victims and make an estimate as to the number of people involved (number of fatalities, injuries) and the symptoms they have (e.g. dizziness, headache, eye irritation etc.)
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  • The colour of the smoke or leaking liquid.
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  • The smells and strange noises, if there are any.
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  • The behaviour of the cloud, if there is one (direction of movement, downwards or upwards, etc.) or the behaviour of the liquid.
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  • If there is any information/markings on the packaging, containers (barrels, cans and pallets) or tanker vehicle (company name etc.) (in the case of an accident involving a tanker vehicle).
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In case of an accident involving a tanker vehicle transporting hazardous substances


Pay special notice


    

  • If there are any orange-colour signs (warning signs identifying the shipment materials), note the two numbers (one two/three-digit and one four-digit number), the so-called UN numbers, e.g.
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-     Do not go off the phone unless told so by the operator – they may require additional information.


    

  • If there are any diamond-shaped hazards labels with colours (red, yellow, blue, etc.), illustrations (bomb explosion, black or white flame, skull and bones, etc.) and numbers on the bottom corner (1.1., 3, 4 etc.). See below examples:
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  • What is near the accident site (facilities, buildings, schools, day-care centres, senior citizen centre, mass transport stop/station, squares, rivers, lakes, drains, etc.).
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      V.    If you are exposed to a chemical


    

  • Call for medical assistance immediately.
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National Emergency Centre (EKAV): 166


Poison Control Centre:  (+30) 210 7793777


C. After the accident


-    Properly air all rooms.


-    For the next 1-2 days, leave your shoes outside when entering your home.


-    Clean all the home furnishings and fixtures (doors, windows, rugs, floors), as well as the outdoor areas (balconies, stairs, terraces).


-    Take daily showers, thoroughly washing your hands, hair and facial hair.


-    Do not eat local fruits and vegetables. Instead, opt for packaged foods from other areas.


-    Once the competent Authorities inform you it is safe to eat local fruits and vegetables, do so following their instructions (e.g. wash well before eating).


-    The competent Authorities, if necessary, will also issue a free-range farming prohibition to animal farmers.


-    Moreover, the competent Authorities will inform you regarding the suitability of consuming animal and fishing products.


-    Wait for the competent Authorities to provide information regarding the use of tap water.


-    Wait for the competent Authorities to provide information regarding the suitability of the local beaches for swimming.


-    Make sure small children are not putting objects that may have been polluted by toxic substances in their mouths.


-    Report the presence of vapours or other dangerous substances to your local Fire Service.


    

  • Only follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
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  • Act quickly if you have come into contact with or have been exposed to dangerous substances.
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  • Immediately seek medical assistance if you are experiencing unusual symptoms.
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  • In the event you have not left the area you were at, stay there until the competent Authorities instruct you to return to your home.
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  • After being informed that the accident has ended and it is safe to return to your home:
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SEVESO site-specific information


SEVESO sites are licensed on a case-by-case basis by the Ministry of Environment & Energy and the Development Directorates of the corresponding Regions [which, according to the provisions of Art. 100 of Law 4605/2019 (Government Gazette Issue 25/A/01-04-2019) are responsible since 01-04-2019 to grant licenses to medical gas and compressed gas production and/or bottling plants, formerly under the competence of the General Secretariat for Industry (Ministry of Development & Investments)]. Sites are divided into upper and lower tier establishments, depending on the amount of hazardous substances they possess.


More specific information for all establishments subject to the provisions of the SEVESO-III Directive (SEVESO sites) is provided by their individual operators to:


    

  • 

    the Independent Directorate of Civil Protection of the corresponding Region, following a relevant request of the latter to the competent licensing authority for upper-tier establishments, and
    

    • 

  • 

    the local competent Fire Service and/or the Directorate for Natural Disasters Planning of the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, following a relevant request of the latter to the competent licensing authority for lower-tier establishments.
    

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In the context of this communication, the following are provided:


    

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    Information regarding the basic safety instructions that citizens should follow in the event of an accident on the establishment.
    

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    A description of the nature of risks concerning large-scale accident risks inside the establishment and their potential impact on public health.
    

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C.B.R.N Accidents
GETTING PREPARED

 


Actions during a CBRN accident depend on many factors (type, quantity and purity of the CBRN factor, method of dispersion, space, weather conditions etc). Therefore they are not the same for each case. Nevertheless the general actions recommended are summarized below:




    

  • Limit your presence in the dangerous environment and therefore your exposure to the CBRN factor.
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  • Remove the CBRN factor from your body.
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  • Move away from the place of the accident and stay in a safe place.
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  • Follow the instructions given by the competent authorities and collaborate with their staff.
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Listed below you will find the general instructions which should be followed until specific instructions are given by the authorities. You can also take a look at the technological hazards instructions.

 


If you find yourself in a place where a CBRN factor is released




    

  • Stay calm. Do not panic.
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  • If the accident takes place outdoors, move away on foot without touching anything. Do not get off too far and do not make use of public or private transport (buses, metro, tram, taxi, cars, bicycles etc). Such behavior could result in a broader dispersion of the dangerous factor to the public transport means and the general public. The spread of the problem could make it more difficult for you to get help.
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  • If the accident takes place indoors, turn off ventilation and heating systems, and the central ones, get out of the building and wait for the authorities.
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  • Seek shelter in the nearest undamaged building. In case of an outdoor explosion, staying or finding shelter indoors reduces your CBRN exposure.
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  • Once in a “safe” place, take off your clothes as soon as possible. Take the clothes off carefully in a way that you don’t expose more to the CBRN factors the sensitive parts and reception organs of your body (the eyes, nose and mouth). Shower with plenty of water by yourself or, even better, in couples in order to clean the difficult parts of the body (behind the ears, eyes, armpits etc).Put the clothes in a plastic bag that closes tightly.
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  • If it is not possible to take off as many clothes as possible (and if weather permits), wait for the authorities who will take care of your decontamination.

     
    

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Be prepared that

 


1) You or someone else will take off your clothes (by tearing or cutting some of them). You will have to stand naked in front of strangers or people that you are familiar with. This is necessary for your best possible health protection.
2) If you wear jewelry or carry with you objects with personal value, be prepared to give them to the decontamination staff.




    

  • If you have children or babies they will be allowed to be with you during the decontamination procedure.
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  • Cooperate with the authorities’ staff tasked with the response to the incident for the best possible outcome (the best condition of your health). Follow the instructions given and don’t disagree.
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  • Do not be surprised to see that the decontamination staff wears protective uniforms you don’t have.  Their protection is necessary to ensure the best possible assistance to you.
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  • Do not forget to report to the authorities anything that you have observed.

     
    

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If you have been exposed to a CB factor without being aware of it


    

  • It is possible that you have symptoms as if you had the flu or caught a cold, such as fever, cough, stomach or muscle pains etc (i.e. biological factor) or as if you exposed yourself to a toxic chemical substance (e.g. mustard gas, pesticide).
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  • Follow carefully the competent authorities’ information - if there was any- and see if you meet the requirements mentioned in the bulletins. Otherwise inform the authorities.
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  • Call your personal doctor or the medical services and do not show up in any medical help centre (hospital, private practice) without informing first.
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ANTHRAX INCIDENTS


 


BEFORE THE INCIDENT (Preventative measures)


    

  • Get informed on the anthrax.
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  • Pay attention and learn to recognize suspicious mail.
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  • Do not open suspicious mail.
     
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List of criteria for an initial assessment of an object (envelop or parcel) as suspicious


The envelope or the parcel is considered to be suspicious in case it fulfills criteria from the list below:


    

  • Unknown or unexpected sender from an unexpected area.
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  • Country of origin of the object.
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  • Inexistence of sender or obscure data on the mail (return address not confirmed, etc).
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  • Wrong addressee.
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  • Marked “personal” or “confidential” without any sender.
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  • Absence of stamps or post mark.
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  • Absence of stamps from a post office.
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  • The stamp of the post office does not match the sender’s address.
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  • Use of excessive number of stamps or material such as adhesive tape, rope or string.
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  • Sense of grainy material-dust on touch.
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  • Diffused odor.
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  • Oily stain or wet envelope.
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  • Weight does not fit with the size or has an unusual shape.
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  • Area, social significance, socio-economic position of the addressee.
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It is stressed that if on the basis of the above criteria the object is considered to be suspicious it is very important not to open it in any case and leave it in the place where it was found.
Special attention should be paid at your workplace and to the last criterion.
 
ACTIONS WHEN THE INCIDENT TAKES PLACE


Sealed suspicious object


    

  • Stay calm. Do not panic.
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  • Do not open and do not move the parcel or envelope.
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  • Do not touch your face.
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  • Put it in a plastic bag or, if you don’t have one, cover it with a cloth, a paper or an object.
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  • Close the windows and turn off the air conditioning.
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  • Evacuate the place where the suspicious object has been found.
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  • Close the door and prohibit entrance in the area.
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  • Wash your hands thoroughly using soap and water.
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  • Call one of the following responsible authorities, Hellenic Police (ELAS) 100, Hellenic Center for Infectious Diseases Control (KEELPNO) 210-5212000, Fire Service 199, General Secretariat for Civil Protection 210 3359000, if you are home or if you are at work inform a  supervisor.
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  • Provide the authorities with any information they may ask for, to help them assess the situation.
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  • Wait for the arrival of KEELPNO and ELAS or for further communication with one of the above services.
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  • While waiting for the responsible authorities record all persons in the area where the suspicious object was found or who came previously into contact with it and ensure they don’t leave.
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  • Give the above list to the staff of the ELAS or KEELPNO.
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  • Follow the instructions you will be given.

     
    

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Open suspicious object and leakage of dust


    

  • Stay calm. Do not panic.
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  • Do not try to clean the dust.
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  • Do not move the envelope or the parcel.
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  • Cover the envelope or the parcel with a sheet of paper or a cloth or some other object carefully so as to avoid creating strong air currents.
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  • Turn off the air conditioning of the place and the entire building if there is any.
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  • Close windows and doors carefully so as to avoid creating strong air currents.
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  • Evacuate the place where the suspicious object has been found.
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  • Prohibit entrance to the place.
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  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
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  • Call one of the following responsible authorities, Hellenic Police (ELAS) 100, Hellenic Center for Infectious Diseases Control (KEELPNO) 210-5212000, Fire Service 199, General Secretariat for Civil Protection 210 3359000, if you are home or if you are at work inform a supervisor.
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  • Provide the authorities with any information you may be asked for, to help them assess the situation.
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  • Wait for the arrival of KEELPNO, ELAS, Fire Service or further communication with one of the above services.
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  • While waiting for the responsible authorities record all persons in the area where the suspicious object was found or who came previously into contact with it and ensure they don’t leave.
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  • Remove all contaminated clothing, place it in a plastic bag and close the bag tightly.   
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  • Wash your whole body with soap and water.
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  • Give the above list to the staff of the ELAS or KEELPNO.
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  • Follow the instructions you will be given by doctors and the competent authorities.

     
    

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ACTIONS AFTER THE INCIDENT


    

  • If the doctors decide to apply chemical protection, that is to give antibiotics, follow without any deviation the instructions.
    • 

  • Inform them if you notice anything strange about your health.
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  • Follow the official announcements of the competent authorities.

     
    

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Competent authorities


    

  • ELAS Hellenic Police
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  • KEELPNO Hellenic Center for Infectious Diseases Control
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  • Fire Service
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  • GSCP General Secretariat for Civil Protection
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All information comes from the official website of the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection of Greece.
www.civilprotection.gr/el/all-guidelines#!