Athens -- A major forest fire that broke out in Lagomandra, Kalamos in northern Attica, Greece was continuing to blaze unchecked on Friday, causing extensive damages, according to Athens News Agency reports.

Deployed against the blaze on Friday afternoon were 78 fire fighters with 26 vehicles, 32 fire men on foot, six aeroplanes, three helicopters and 15 water-tanker vehicles sent by surrounding municipalities to help the fire fighting effort.

The fire has so far caused extensive damage to at least one home in the area and the flames have passed through the yards of other houses. The flames were heading toward the beach but fire fighters said they were being hampered in their efforts by strong winds that frequently changed direction.

The traffic police have closed off roads leading into the area in a broad span around the fire so that fire engines can move around more easily.

On the occasion of the above incidents and on the basis of the forecasts made by the General Secretariat of Political Protection, Attica and Boeotia are running a high risk for fires. Thus, civilians are advised to especially careful when doing outdoor work and in case of fire call 199 immediately.

Severe wild fires occurred in Greece last summer which led to at least 65 people dead and hundreds of people homeless.