GFS reminds Guyanese of precautionary measures to prevent fires

In light of the devastating fire in Wisroc Linden (Region 10) in the wee hours of Monday that claimed the life of 83-year-old Norma Semple, the Guyana Fire Service is urging Guyanese to take the necessary precautionary measures to prevent a fire.

The aftermath of the fatal fire

The Fire Service is encouraging citizens to ensure that all appliances are turned off and unplugged before leaving a room or building.
In a release issued to the press on Tuesday, the Guyana Fire Service further reminded: “Never leave children unattended or within the reach of fire starters and flammable items; never leave cooking unattended; always keep children a safe distance from the cooking area; desist from overloading electrical sockets e.g., overloading of drop cords and power strips with various appliances.”
In addition, the Guyana Fire Service is recommending the installation of smoke detectors in all homes and businesses so that persons can be alerted in the event of a fire. Finally, the release stated that portable fire extinguishers can be effective in fighting small contained fires and urged citizens to keep them in an accessible area and ensure that they are trained in its use.
Meanwhile, an investigation has been launched into the circumstances that led to the fatal fire. The fire department noted that it would have received the report of a fire at about 2:20h and as such, a water tender along with water bowser from the Linden Fire Station were dispatched to the location.
The fire was extinguished at 3:10h. Investigation also revealed that another house sustained damages to the windows, PVC guttering and pipes due to radiated heat from the building of origin. The investigation is continuing.