The GFS has launched an education awareness initiative to address concerns
A fire of unknown origin has destroyed a house at Four Miles Squatting Area in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), on Wednesday evening, and five persons have been rendered homeless.
According to reports, the fire started at about 21:00h, after Julissa Roberts and Tavis Callender, a 33-year-old miner, had secured their home and gone to the township of Bartica with their three children.
Callender told investigators that, at about 21:00h, he received a telephone call from a neighbour, informing him that his house was on fire; and upon arriving on scene, he observed his house engulfed in flames, with public-spirited persons futilely engaging in efforts to put out the fire.
The fire was eventually extinguished by firefighters, and Callender has estimated his loss at $4M.
The fire that destroyed the house
In a release to the media, the Guyana Fire Service has reported that, since the beginning of the year, it has responded to over 20 fires originating from electrical issues, arson and negligence.
In response to this concern, it has launched nationwide community engagement initiatives wherein fire-fighters are actively spreading awareness about fire safety and prevention as they reach citizens one person at a time.
The GFS has said that through outreach events, public education and collaboration with local organizations, it aims to educate residents on fire safety measures, evacuation procedures, and the importance of early detection. Its awareness campaign includes distributing informative pamphlets and conducting fire safety talks and demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers, apart from facilitating free home inspections.
Persons are asked to keep an eye out for Guyana Fire Service personnel in their communities, as these officials strive to extinguish the flames of ignorance and promote a culture of safety.
