The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has issued an advisory as the country faces a period of above-normal temperatures predicted by the Hydrometeorological Service for September to November 2024.
With extreme heat and heatwave days expected, particularly in September and October, the GFS is urging citizens to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of fires and ensure public safety.
According to the Hydrometeorological Service, the coming months are forecasted to be among the hottest of the year, with temperatures likely to be higher than average. This increase in heat could have significant impacts on public health, agriculture, livestock, and fire risks. The GFS is committed to protecting lives and property from fires and is providing special services and humanitarian aid to address these challenges.
To prevent fires, the GFS advises all residents to refrain from activities that could spark a fire, such as the open burning of debris and agricultural waste. If burning is necessary, it should be closely monitored to prevent fires from spreading.
Thick smoke from the brush fire that forced the evacuation of resident of Santa Aratak Mission in March
The GFS also stresses the importance of keeping water sources accessible for fire control and ensuring that fire hydrants are not blocked. “Ensure fire hydrants are not obstructed and are easily accessible in case of an emergency,” the GFS advises. This measure is crucial for enabling quick action to contain fires before they spread.
In addition, the GFS recommends equipping homes and businesses with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and smoke alarms. These tools are vital for early fire detection and can help prevent small fires from becoming large, uncontrollable blazes. The service also emphasizes the importance of having evacuation plans in place. Developing and practising these plans can ensure a swift and organized response in the event of a fire.
The GFS encourages community leaders and members to promote fire safety practices and ensure everyone is aware of the dangers associated with the forecasted heat wave.
The GFS urges anyone who sees a fire to report it immediately. Early intervention is crucial to prevent the spread of fires.
“If you see a fire, report it immediately to the Guyana Fire Service,” the GFS states. Citizens are reminded to contact the GFS via emergency lines 912 and 226-2411-3 in case of an emergency.
In March of this year, Guyana experienced a severe wildfire crisis, with over 1,000 grass fires reported nationwide. The majority of these fires were concentrated in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). The wildfires caused significant damage and disruption.
One notable incident was the wildfire in Parakies Village, Region One (Barima-Waini), where a fire that originated in open farmland led to the death of 93-year-old Alexander Josephine. The fire caused severe burns and significant damage to the surrounding vegetation. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Josephine was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
Another major wildfire occurred in the Santa Aratak/Santa Mission area along the Demerara River in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).
This blaze led to the evacuation of over 250 people, with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) assisting in relocating residents and providing shelter at Timehri Primary School. The shelter was later closed, with residents having returned to their homes.
