GFS warns against openly burning garbage heaps, grass

The Guyana Fire Service on Thursday issued a stern warning for residents to refrain from openly burning heaps of garbage or grass. This warning was sounded following the death of 75-year-old Sammy Munian on Tuesday after an unmanaged rubbish fire spread to a nearby building at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara.
“If grass or garbage fires do occur, they should never be left unattended, as they possess the potential to become major fire emergencies. Persons desirous of using fire as a method of land clearing or for any other purpose must obtain permission from the Guyana Fire Service before proceeding further,” a release from the GFS stated.

The Fire Service added that citizens should note the open burning of garbage is prohibited and the perpetrators can be fined no less than $80,000 or spend three months in prison for the offence.
Further, the GFS has asked citizens to follow a few tips to control and prevent grass and garbage fires. These include desisting from openly burning grass and garbage. Find other means of disposal and/or land clearing. Never leave a grass or garbage fire unattended. Report large grass and garbage fires to the Fire Department. Do not throw cigarette or cigar butts on the ground or out of a vehicle. Be mindful of parking vehicles on dry grass or shrubs. Parents should emphasize to their children the dangers of playing with fires, and keep a shovel, bucket of water, fire extinguisher or other fire suppression tools on hand.