Eteringbang Landing, situated along the Upper Cuyuni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), fell victim to a destructive fire on Sunday morning, as confirmed by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS).
The blaze, whose origin remains unknown, ignited at about 03:00h, causing the complete destruction of three wooden structures.
Raimundo Lucio Dos Anjos Oliveira, a 52-year-old Brazilian national residing at Eteringbang Landing, told fire officers that he observed the fire erupting from the circuit board area of his two-storey, ten-room building.
Despite his efforts to douse the flames with water, his attempts proved futile. Consequently, the fire rapidly spread beyond control, engulfing his property and two neighbouring abandoned buildings.
The fire that destroyed the buildings in Eteringbang
The valiant endeavours by Oliveira and local residents, who swiftly mobilised water pumps, the fire was contained, resulting in additional structures being saved from destruction. No casualties were reported, although the extent of the damages is yet to be assessed.
The GFS has since initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire. The fire service in a statement on Sunday emphasised the importance of remaining calm in such emergencies and offer the following guidelines: “stay calm and avoid panic, cut the power: safely deactivate the power supply to the affected area if feasible, use a fire extinguisher: employ a suitable fire extinguisher from a safe distance; never use water on an electrical fire, evacuate: promptly evacuate if the fire is spreading beyond control, call for help: report the incident by dialling 912.”
The GFS further stated that it is crucial to refrain from using water on electrical fires and to await the arrival of professional firefighters before re-entering the area.
“Remember, safety is always the top priority”, the fire service said. (G9)
