Cyprus has recorded 20 electrical-related fires so far in 2025, with authorities announcing enhanced safety measures and mandatory periodic inspections for both public and private installations.
Preliminary data from the Fire Service shows 12 fires were caused by short circuits, six by electrical appliances, and two by heating and cooking devices, though some incidents remain under investigation.
The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) spokesperson Christina Papadopoulou emphasised the importance of inspecting new electrical installations and ensuring proper certification of appliances. “These inspections are extremely rigorous, with safety being the primary objective,” Papadopoulou said.
The statements were made in response to a house fire that killed a family of five in Limassol on Saturday.
Fire incidents caused by electrical faults have shown a declining trend, with 89 short circuit-related fires recorded in 2024, down from 123 in 2023. Fires caused by electrical appliances also decreased from 26 in 2023 to 19 in 2024.
Pavlos Giavris, Deputy Director of the Department of Electromechanical Services, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) that random sampling checks are conducted across a wide range of products to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The department is preparing legislation to introduce periodic inspections of electrical installations in both public and private buildings, Giavris said, with the draft law expected to undergo public consultation.
Data from the Cyprus Consumers Association revealed that 574 notifications were issued between 2021 and 2025 through the EU Safety Gate (Rapex) system for electrical appliances posing serious risks to consumers.
The head of Cyprus Consumers Association has warned that safety inspections of electrical appliances are either insufficient or lack thoroughness, amid concerns over dangerous devices in the market. Marios Drousiotis, speaking to (CNA), said there were numerous hazardous electrical appliances being sold and called for immediate measures to address the issue.
“The required checks are not being carried out,” Drousiotis told CNA. “And when they are conducted, they lack depth.”
The Fire Service has issued safety guidelines for heating appliances, advising residents to place them on stable surfaces away from flammable materials and to disconnect them when leaving premises unattended.
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