The Forestry Department is issuing recommendations following recent incidents that occurred in forested areas during mushroom picking, including, among others, the disappearance of a 60-year-old man in the Paphos forest—for whom a search operation is currently underway—and the tragedy that claimed the life of a 75-year-old woman.
Specifically, the Forestry Department urges mushroom pickers, hunters, and all forest visitors to exercise extreme caution during their outings and to take the necessary measures to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
To prevent accidents and incidents of getting lost, the public is urged to:
- Stay close to their vehicle and stick to familiar routes. If possible, save the parking location on their cell phone.
- Avoid dangerous areas, such as cliffs, ravines, and rough or slippery paths.
- Let your loved ones know where you’re going and avoid going out alone. Also, stay in constant contact with the other members of your group.
- They should carry a fully charged cell phone and, whenever possible, navigation tools.
- They should wear appropriate clothing and footwear. They should wear sturdy footwear with non-slip soles and clothing appropriate for the season and weather conditions, carrying a raincoat and extra warm clothing with them.
- They should wear highly visible clothing on hunting days, such as brightly colored garments, preferably a high-visibility vest.
- Check the weather conditions before setting out.
- Carry sufficient drinking water, a small amount of food, a flashlight, and a small first-aid kit, as well as any necessary personal medications.
- They should only pick mushrooms that they can identify with absolute certainty as edible, and they should do so with respect for the forest and the environment.
- In case of disorientation or an emergency: Stay calm, avoid wandering aimlessly, and remain in a safe spot. If immediate assistance is needed, call 112 or 1407, providing as precise a description of their location as possible, and follow the instructions of emergency services.
The Forestry Department emphasizes that no outing justifies putting human life at risk and urges the public to enjoy the forest with caution, responsibility, and respect for the natural environment.
Safety comes first on every outing.
