Berbice Fire Dept taking prevention campaign to communities

The Berbice Division of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has embarked on a new and interesting initiative by talking to members of the public about the role of the unit and more so, educating them about fire prevention.
One such initiative was taken to Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, which is considered a suburb and has been plagued with several social problems. There is a high rate of teenage pregnancy, unemployment, and school dropouts.

Firemen meeting residents of Angoy’s Avenue

Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald explained that the aim was to sensitise residents on fire safety measures. According to him, the department also took the opportunity to do topography.
“Topography in the firefighting arena means that we are going geography on the area in the event of an emergency; where we can find key points and vulnerable points.” He referred to this as knowing the station ground.
McDonald related that while officers were meeting with residents individually and discussing with them fire prevention and safety, it was surprising to know that some of them did not know the numbers to contact the Fire Service in the event of a fire.

Fire officials at the New Amsterdam Hospital

“It was a little bit alarming but nevertheless it was a very good venture and it bore some fruit.”
Recently, a similar excise was conducted at the New Amsterdam Hospital and according to McDonald, the main aim was to get first-hand knowledge of the facility so that in the event of a fire emergency, they will be aware of where the water source is.
The Divisional Fire Chief added that the department did have some concerns and these were raised with the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital.
McDonald further disclosed that other community outreaches are planned across the Berbice region. He pointed out that no criterion was used in choosing Angoy’s Avenue.
“Many times persons only know the Fire Service when there is distress; they don’t see the Fire Service on any other day – only when there is an emergency. So, it is not a case where we choose that area. There are many other areas within Regions Five and Six that we have plans to go and do walkthrough and do sensitisation,” the senior firefighter added.