FIRES UNDER CONTROL

ATHENS/BRUSSELS, AUGUST 21 /SRNA/ - Fires in Greece, on the Pelion Peninsula, and in Belgium's Liège Province have been partially brought under control, firefighters and local officials said today.

The Greek Fire Service said the fire was in Koropi, where 27 firefighters and nine vehicles are involved in the firefighting operation, Protothema reported.

The fire broke out yesterday, affecting dry grass and olive trees, but was successfully brought under control.

"The fire in the High Fens is under control. There is currently no risk of it spreading," the Office of the Governor of Liège Province said.

The Governor's Office said that entry into closed forest and natural areas in Verviers, Malmedy and Elsenborn remains strictly prohibited.

It also stressed that the fire had seriously affected the surrounding area and that citizens are not allowed to attempt to rescue animals on their own initiative.

"Animals in need of assistance are being taken in by professionals," the statement concluded.