Children's Camps Lack Evacuation Plans in Case of Fire

A bill regarding the evacuation of children's camps in case of fire, submitted in 2021 by MP Charalambos Theopemptou, remains pending. The issue resurfaced after the recent fire in Lemesos, with interventions by Mr. Theopemptou and the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights, Despo Michaelidou.

Civil Defence identified the gap in June 2025, noting that the camps are not included in the updated data of the "Polyvios" plan. In its report to the Minister of Interior, Civil Defence states that there is no relevant legislative framework for conducting camps.

The Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights stressed the need for immediate institutionalization of the operation of children's camps with a special law, in order to ensure the safety of children in emergency situations. Mr. Theopemptou stated that if the government had accepted his bill, these problems would not exist.

The bill is pending, and the current situation may contribute to its approval, so that children's camps are legally covered.