GBTI makes donation to Fire Service

In recognising its social responsibility, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) made a monetary donation to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS).

Station Officer Andrew Holder receiving the cheque from a GBTI Marketing Assistant, Tricia Persaud, in the presence of other officers from the Guyana Fire Service
Station Officer Andrew Holder receiving the cheque from a GBTI Marketing Assistant, Tricia Persaud, in the presence of other officers from the Guyana Fire Service

The donation was made as the country observes the 42nd National Fire Prevention Week, which commenced on Sunday October 9, 2016 and will conclude on October 16.

The presentation was made at GBTI’s Corporate Office in Kingston, Georgetown, on Tuesday.

Receiving the donation was Fire Prevention Officer, Andrew Holder, along with two subordinate officers from the Fire Service.

Meanwhile, as part of the list of activities planned by the Guyana Fire Service, the public is invited to visit fire stations in their community.

In fact, Holder is encouraging people to engage their local fire fighters to learn about fire prevention and safety measures.

“All fire stations as of Monday are open for visits by members of the public, if there are any questions you may have in your minds as it relates to fire fighting approach (or) fire safety,” he told the Government Information Agency (GINA).

According to the Station Officer with responsibility for fire prevention, opening the fire stations to the public is also part of clearing up misconceptions held by the public.

“Some people would say that, oh the fire trucks don’t get water when we come. People seem to think that, okay, whenever there is no fire, firemen just lay back and play dominoes. Here is your opportunity to visit fire stations around the country ask questions, inquire what goes on on a daily basis,” Holder explained.

He continued that fire fighters provide a number of services and they are kept busy even when there is no fire.

“There is always something meaningful that fire fighters are engaged in; be it training or responding to some other non-fire emergency such as rendering humanitarian service on the road, special service. So feel free to visit any fire station within your area during this week… any question you can ask,” Holder said.

The GFS has scheduled a month-long education awareness programme. The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is, “Fire safety: A collective responsibility for the preservation of lives and property.”