As the fire prevention season begins and is expected to prove particularly demanding, SupportCY of the Bank of Cyprus has enhanced its operational readiness by deploying drones for fire prevention and early wildfire detection, in cooperation with the Fire Service.
With the risk of fire outbreaks and rapid spread expected to rise in the coming weeks, the organisation has placed unmanned aerial vehicles into operation as part of a broader framework of preparedness and risk management. Through coordinated patrols, the drones allow for the continuous monitoring of vulnerable areas, early identification of fire hotspots and immediate notification of the competent authorities.
The drone deployment forms part of SupportCY’s wider operational strategy, aimed at maximising readiness and improving response times during the critical summer period.
At the beginning of 2026, SupportCY established a specialised Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit within its volunteer corps. The unit is equipped with modern drones, certified and experienced operators, and the capability to transmit live imagery from across Cyprus.
Training and preparedness
In parallel, the SupportCY Volunteer Corps is completing training programmes for new and existing volunteers in the coming days, focusing on fire prevention, response and post‑fire recovery. The training is conducted in close cooperation with state authorities, particularly the Fire Service.
Four local and two nationwide readiness exercises have already taken place, involving all units of the Volunteer Corps, as well as the newly established Firefighting Helicopter Support Unit. The latter provides specialised portable water tanks for refuelling firefighting helicopters.
Head of SupportCY, Marios Stavrou, said that preparations were stepped up in anticipation of a difficult fire season, with emphasis placed on safety standards and European quality benchmarks for both equipment and protective gear. He stressed that the creation of the drone unit aims to further strengthen prevention efforts in cooperation with the Fire Service, underlining that effective fire protection depends on close coordination between state services, volunteers, local authorities and other stakeholders.
