Fire Service urged to upgrade techniques amid rapid industrial growth

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has been urged to implement more specialised firefighting measures to further enhance safety in light of Guyana’s rapid industrial growth, which will require highly skilled personnel to effectively control the various new firefighting situations that will arise due to the establishment of new industries. This call was made by Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Friday at the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) firefighter graduation ceremony.

During his remarks Benn highlighted the importance of fire safety awareness and prevention amid the country’s rapid industrial growth. He stressed the need for specialised firefighting capabilities to address new challenges, especially with the upcoming petrochemical complex in Wales.
“We have already built the building for the fire service at Wales in preparation for the advent of the petrochemical complex there, the Guyana Fire Service must have the knowledge and awareness to fight those types of high-temperature, high-explosive fires.”
Moreover, the minister also encouraged the graduates to continue upskilling themselves noting that it is important for members of the fire service to continuously develop themselves.
“When we are making the investments and the training in young people, and when we are looking at upgrading our methodologies and approach to firefighting, it is because we want to see continuous improvement, progress and development in our country. We want them to have courage we want them to not think of the fire service job as work but as a place which is designed for training and self-development, going up the ladder of personal progressive development and personal improvement,” he stated.
Benn further reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards modernising and improving the quality and services of the GFS. This commitment is highlighted through several investments including new fire stations, state-of-the-art equipment, and enhanced training programmes.
Also present at the ceremony was Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, who highlighted the comprehensive nature of the training programme. “Our training goes beyond just firefighting techniques. We focus on developing well-rounded first responders who can handle a variety of emergency situations with professionalism and expertise,” he stated.
The chief fire officer also expressed gratitude to the Government of Guyana for its ongoing support, noting that four new stations are currently under construction to supplement the 22 existing stations across the country. Additionally, he mentioned the acquisition of more appliances and specialised equipment for firefighting and rescue operations, which significantly enhance the Fire Service’s ability to serve the nation. He encouraged the graduates to become ambassadors of fire prevention and safety in their communities, and to remain confident, calm, and resilient in the performance of their duties.

Boost to workforce
Meanwhile, the GFS workforce last Friday was significantly strengthened as a total of 97 persons, who hail from eight administrative regions across the country, successfully completed a three-month training programme at the Leonora Training School.
The graduation of Batch One of 2024 marks a significant milestone for the GFS as the largest and most diverse class in the service’s history. For the second consecutive year, a female recruit topped the course. Recruit Firewoman Tiffany Caesar was named Best Overall Student, highlighting the increasing role of women in the fire service. Tiffany Caesar distinguished herself by earning both the Overall Best Student and Best Theory awards, showcasing her comprehensive understanding of firefighting principles.