The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 08-07-08

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] DEH "On the Alert"

08 Ιουλ 2008 09:49:0

Sources: ΝΕΤ, ΝΕΤ 105.8, ΑNA-ΜPA

Meteorologists have forecast over 40C for today and a gradual drop in temperatures from the evening starting in the west and north parts of the country. The state mechanism has been placed on the alert.The Health Ministry has effected the "Perseas" operational plan and the National Health Operational Plan is on the alert. Citizens are advised to take the necessary self-protection measures and particularly high risk groups such as the elderly and children. In the meantime, Power Corporation DEH has not ruled out rotational power cuts to economize on energy as power consumption is expected to rise due to intensive use of air-conditioners during the days of baking temperatures. DEH has already called on 40 of the largest industries to reduce energy consumption. In his statements, Development Minister, Hristos Folias said that the power system is at marginal state but underlined "whatever humanly possible is done". He will himself visit DESMHE on Tuesday morning for its better coordination and expressed the belief that alert of the competent services in cooperation with citizens -expected to show restrain and economize on energy-we will overcome the difficult days.

Self protection measures

Due to high temperatures and increased humidity on Tuesday and Wednesday, municipalities and the National Emergency Center are on the alert to assist people. The most characteristic symptoms of heat stroke are the following: Strong headache Fainting feeling Nausea Weakness Intensive Thirst

In the event someone has the above symptoms, we should transfer him to a cool place, remove or loosen tight clothing, apply wet cloths to head, give plenty of liquids and slight quantity of salt and certainly dial emergency center if necessary. High risk groups such as the elderly and children should avoid outdoor activities on Tuesday and Wednesday. Light clothing, light meals, large quantities of liquids, sun-glasses, hat and showers are suggested to deal with heat waves.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[02] Family Tragedy in Corfu

Sources: ΝΕΤ 105.8

An elderly couple was found dead after a fire that broke out shortly after 02:00 on Tuesday in their house in Camares, on the island of Corfu. Their 45 year old son set the fire. He has already been arrested and admitted his action. According to neigbours, the family had frequent fights. Five fire brigades and 15 firefighters raced to the site and put the fire out but the couple was found in their bedroom burned to death.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[03] Bank Attacks

Sources: ΝΕΤ 105.8

Anarchists at the early hours this morning( 03:25- 04:10) attacked with home made gas bombs ALPHA Bank branch on 66 Protesilaou St., in Ilion and COMMERCIAL Bank branch at the corner of Ionia and Trikoupi St., in Alimos, destroying the ATMs of both banks and causing damage to the entrances. Damage was also caused to an electronic shop across the Commercial bank at Ionias St.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[04] Some 330 Active Fires

08 Ιουλ 2008 08:30:0

More than 19.000 California firefighters are battling to put under control some 330 active fires raging across the state since June, 20 before the arrival of a forecast record heat wave later this week, officials said. Nearly 1,800 blazes have erupted since June 20, scorching around 241,600 hectares according to latest figures.The frontlines of the battle are two separate out-of-control wildfires threatening thousands of homes which are burning in the Los Padres National Forest near the coastal town of Santa Barbara and the tourist haven of Big Sur. Cooler temperatures and light winds allowed firefighters tackling the flames to make significant inroads, a fire spokesman said, with crews successfully strengthening containment lines during the lull. However, firefighters are now scrambling to make more progress before weather conditions turned.A heatwave is expected to arrive in the region on Wednesday, bringing temperatures of around 32-37 Celsius.The fire near Santa Barbara has scorched 3,876 hectares since breaking out on July 1 and is now 35 % contained while the fire near Big Sur which has so far ripped through more than 31,000 hectares, is 18 % contained.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

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