Fire threats averted in Essequibo, Stabroek Market as authorities warn of safety risks

Two separate fire incidents in different parts of the country on Friday highlighted the importance of fire safety, as quick action by residents and passers-by helped prevent potential disasters.
Fire officials have since renewed their warnings about electrical hazards and kitchen-related fires, urging the public to take precautions to avoid similar incidents.

In Westbury Village, Jonestown, Essequibo Coast, a community effort saved the home of 71-year-old Selena Biedder, after a fire erupted due to a makeshift drop cord with a loose connection. The blaze ignited nearby combustible materials, putting the household at risk.
Firefighters responded to the call at approximately 13:26h, but by the time they arrived, public-spirited neighbours had already formed a bucket brigade and extinguished the flames.
However, the fire did cause damage to the northeastern walls of the home, along with several household items, including a wardrobe, two full-sized mattresses, and window curtains.
Biedder, along with several occupants—including Keisha Payne, 21, Eon Marks, 37, Kerry Biedder, 20, Seon Payne, 18, Jermaine Williams, 15, Annializa Marks, 8, Alisha Torrenton, 12, and Emily Torrenton, 16—escaped unharmed.
The Guyana Fire Service has since urged residents to use proper electrical connections, and avoid makeshift drop cords, which can easily overheat and cause fires.
Authorities also reminded the public to refrain from overloading sockets and power strips – a common cause of household fires.
Later that evening, at approximately 20:33h, another fire scare occurred at Stall 22D, Stelling View, Stabroek Market, Georgetown.
That blaze was reportedly caused by a two-burner gas stove that had been left unattended with a pot on a burner.
The stall, owned by 74-year-old Michael Hughes of Lot 133 Friendship, East Coast Demerara, narrowly escaped damage thanks to the quick response of nearby passers-by.
Witnesses managed to turn off the gas supply and remove the burning pot, tossing it through an open window before the flames could spread.
Fire officials are once again cautioning citizens about the dangers of leaving cooking appliances unattended, stressing that gas stoves should always be monitored when in use. They also advised that gas cylinders be properly turned off after use to prevent potential explosions or fires.
With two fire-related incidents occurring on the same day—one caused by electrical hazards and the other by an unattended stove—the Guyana Fire Service is warning the public to be more vigilant. Authorities emphasized that early intervention, such as those taken in Essequibo and Stabroek, can make the difference between a minor incident and a devastating blaze.
Citizens are urged to take fire safety seriously, ensuring that electrical wiring is secure, power sources are not overloaded, and kitchen appliances are never left unattended.