As wildfires continue to affect multiple European countries, the EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre is continuously working to channel assistance to local authorities, according to press release by the Commissoin which outlines the contribution of member states (including Cyprus), in fighting fires currently raging in Bulgaria and North Macedonia. Currently, both Bulgaria and North Macedonia are receiving EU assistance following requests to activate the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (rescEU). In Bulgaria, a total of 10 airplanes and two helicopters have been deployed overall to support the country since it requested help on 15 July. Currently, two Canadairs from the rescEU reserve from Spain are operating in Bulgaria. In North Macedonia, three helicopters and six airplanes have been deployed overall to the country via the Mechanism since it requested help on 30 July. Currently, four rescEU reserve airplanes from Cyprus and Germany are operating in North Macedonia, with an additional availability o f a helicopter from Slovenia which will start operations on 10 August. The EU's Copernicus emergency satellite mapping system is also providing support to Greece, following a recent fire on the island of Crete. The Commission underlines also that it is constantly monitoring the situation across Europe and stands ready to provide further help if requested. The capacities of rescEU and the European Civil Protection Pool include 28 airplanes and four helicopters stationed in 10 Member States. In addition, more than 540 firefighters from 12 countries are strategically prepositioned across key locations in Europe, in France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain, ready to help local fire brigades if forest fires break out. Source : Cyprus News Agency