Fire Service urges Parika Market businesses to prioritise safety

The threat of fires is a pressing concern for businesses in the Parika Market Front area, on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE). In response, the Leonora Fire Station recently conducted an educational drive, urging business owners to prioritise fire safety measures in their establishments.
Led by Station Officer Suresh Persaud; Sub Officer Jermaine Fraser and Fireman Saunders, the team lectured on safety measures for children’s fire safety, generator safety, kitchen safety, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers.
Business owners were strongly encouraged to install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers to prevent fire-related incidents. Station Officer Persaud emphasised that the installation of these safety devices can make a significant difference in mitigating damage caused by fires.
“The early detection of a fire and the ability to contain it with a fire extinguisher can save lives and property,” he explained.
The educational drive was well-received by business owners, who expressed gratitude to the Fire Service for promoting fire safety. They pledged to take the necessary steps to ensure their establishments are equipped to prevent fires.
Recent incidents involving fires in Guyana highlight the need for businesses and individuals to prioritise fire safety measures. In February, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) recommended that fire safety requirements be implemented not only in businesses and homes but also in schools, reducing the risks associated with disasters.
The GFS noted that fire extinguishers must be hung in all enclosed areas, offices, and spaces, and they must be placed on brackets or stands with their handles some 1.4 metres from floor level to facilitate handling by persons of average height.
They also recommended smoke detectors for all enclosed offices, spaces, and hallways throughout the building and an automatic sprinkler system for buildings three floors or higher.
The need for these measures is also underscored by the alarming prevalence of school fires, which have displaced hundreds of students. Four arson attacks on schools in Guyana over the span of two years saw the displacement of some 1954 students.
The most recent fire at Christ Church Secondary, which occurred on January 12, 2023, affected 503 students, 39 teachers, and nine ancillary staff. The GFS emphasised the importance of these safety measures to prevent such disasters in the future. (G9)