TWO FIREFIGHTERS KILLED ON CRETE

ATHENS, JULY 29 /SRNA-Reuters/ - Two Greek firefighters were killed on the island of Crete after they became trapped in the flames, the Greek Fire Service said.

The fire broke out today in the Rethymno region of Crete, a popular tourist destination. Fanned by strong winds, it quickly spread near the village of Krya Vrysi in the centre of the island.

ERT television reported that the two firefighters became trapped in the flames while travelling by vehicle from one fire front to another.

Sifis Vavurakis, president of the local community of Krya Vrysi, said that the fire was out of control.

"The fire front stretches for 15 kilometres. Let us hope that we will save our lives and our homes," he said.

Residents of three nearby villages, including Krya Vrysi, were instructed to evacuate.

The Greek Fire Service said that 156 firefighters and volunteers were working to contain the fire on Crete, assisted by four aircraft and four helicopters.

The head of the EU Emergency Response Centre said earlier today that Greece and Italy would face an increased risk of wildfires in the coming weeks.