Citizens urged to consult with GFS before burning garbage – Fire Chief

As a measure to mitigate fires during the ongoing heat wave, Fire Chief Gregory Wickham is urging citizens to consult with the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) before burning garbage.
“Well, burning garbage is illegal. It’s against regulations, and there are specific guidelines for disposing of waste that people need to follow. If they burn anything without permission from the Fire Service, it will be considered illegal,” Wickham has emphasised.
In addition to warning about the dangers of illegal burning, Wickham highlighted the risks associated with the overuse of electrical appliances during this time. He is cautioning against the constant use of appliances that draw large amounts of electricity, which could lead to fires.
“Generally, we advise members of the public, including users of electricity, not to overload electrical circuits. When leaving their premises or workplaces, they should ensure all appliances are turned off. They should also avoid running extension cords under rugs or carpets, and ensure that areas where electrical appliances are in use, such as AC units, are not obstructed by window coverings,” he has advised.
Further, Wickham has said that various preventative measures have been initiated by the Fire Service, including outreach efforts in different communities.
“The information we’ve received from the Meteorological Office indicates that the country will be experiencing a dry and hot season for a prolonged period. In response, we’ve begun distributing messages and information to the public, particularly to those who use fire in the open — whether to clear dry vegetation (or) for farming or other purposes,” he said.
He added that the GFS is guiding individuals on safe burning practices, and is conducting community outreach exercises to inform the public about fire safety measures. These community meetings provide an opportunity for one-on-one interactions, wherein fire officials can directly educate citizens on the best practices to prevent fires during the hot season.
In March of this year, Guyana experienced a severe wildfire crisis, with over 1,000 grass fires reported nationwide. Most of those fires were concentrated in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), and had
caused significant damage and disruption.
One notable incident was the wildfire in Parakies Village in Region One (Barima-Waini), where a fire that originated in open farmland had led to the death of 93-year-old Alexander Josephine. That fire had caused severe burns and significant damage to the surrounding vegetation. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Josephine was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
Another major wildfire occurred in the Santa Aratak/ Santa Mission area along the Demerara River in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). That blaze had led to the evacuation of over 250 persons, with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) assisting in relocating residents and providing shelter at Timehri Primary School, EBD. The shelter was later closed after residents had returned to their homes.