Firefighters trained to investigate fires, build court-ready cases

Firefighters have completed specialised training in the fundamentals of fire investigation, equipping them with the skills to investigate both small and large fires, preserve fire scenes and collect and document evidence for use in court proceedings.
The Basic Fire Investigation Training Programme concluded on Friday with a closing ceremony at the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) Training School in Leonora, West Coast Demerara.
According to the GFS, the programme’s practical component marked another milestone in its ongoing collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service, aimed at strengthening regional partnerships and enhancing the investigative capacity of firefighters.

Lead Investigator and Assistant Divisional Officer Ishmael Noel thanked Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham for recognising the need for specialised fire investigation training. He also expressed appreciation to the government and prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago for facilitating the initiative, which enabled the two fire services to collaborate in building professional expertise.
Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, in his remarks, thanked the Government of Guyana for investing in the professional development of firefighters through the programme. He also commended the participants for their commitment and encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills gained to strengthen the fire service’s investigative capabilities and improve service delivery.
The GFS said that with the successful completion of the basic phase, the firefighters are now better equipped to conduct professional fire investigations that support public safety.
The Intermediate Fire Investigation Training Programme is scheduled to begin in September 2026 as the Guyana Fire Service continues its efforts to develop highly trained fire investigators.