New Network of Incident Command Centers Across Greece

Thirteen regional incident command centers (small E.S.K.E.D.I.K.s) are being established under the new bill from the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection. According to the Civil Protection, an Incident Command Center will operate in each Regional Fire Department Command, connected to the National Coordination Center for Operations (E.S.K.E.D.I.K.).

This will ensure a unified operational picture in real time, from the local to the national level, allowing for faster decision-making. A central pillar is the introduction of standardized management and operational response protocols, based on the internationally recognized Incident Command System (ICS).

The centers will operate as coordination and communication hubs, equipped with communication systems, satellite maps, and technical support. Liaison officers from S.O.P.P., P.E.S.O.P.P., and T.E.S.O.P.P., as well as representatives from volunteer and non-governmental organizations, will be permanently stationed there.

The goal is a modern administration that will overcome past weaknesses, guided by international standards from the USA, Canada, and Italy. The new model aims at faster decision-making, enhanced security, and transparency in information dissemination.

The Incident Command System (ICS) will be applied on three levels: strategic (strengthening E.S.K.E.D.I.K.), operational (new Incident Command Centers), and tactical (command elements in the field).