Fire ravages Enmore lumberyard

A fire broke out around noon on Monday, consuming a lumberyard at Enmore on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours, but as of 16:30h, they were unable to extinguish the fire.
The fire, which originated in a grassy area, quickly spread to the nearby lumberyard, consuming the wooden structures within. Firefighters from the nearby stations responded to the scene and sprang into action to get the situation under control.
The Enmore lumberyard suffered significant damage, although the exact extent and value of the losses are still being assessed. Firefighters and emergency personnel, with support from the community, managed to prevent the fire from spreading further, ensuring neighbouring properties were safe from harm.
Grassfires continue to erupt in several communities in Guyana due to the continuing hot, dry weather and lack of rain. This has left people with significant losses. A few days ago, wildfires in the Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), damaged several acres of plantain at Crabwood Creek.
More than 50 farmers cultivate land at Torani Canal, with most investing in plantain and citrus. On Tuesday last, farmers discovered that the dry bush adjacent to their cultivated fields was burning. By Wednesday, the fire swept over the canal with the aid of the wind and started burning sections of the cultivated area.
One farmer lost seven acres cultivated with plantain, citrus, and other fruits, while another lost five acres. The fire also damaged significant portions of other farms.
A few weeks ago, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) collaborated with other agencies to establish a comprehensive strategy to combat the increasing occurrences of grassfires, commonly known as wildfires. Chief Fire Officer (ag) Gregory Wickham emphasised the rise in these incidents during a media interaction. He advised against leaving grass or garbage fires unattended, especially during the dry season when they can quickly escalate.
Wickham highlighted the challenge of accessibility in remote areas, where firefighters have to continue on foot due to limited vehicle access. He urged the public to maintain water sources and engage in fire safety measures collectively. If encountering suspicious fires or smoke, the Fire Service said it is crucial to promptly call 912.