Keep matches, lighters away from children – fire service warns

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is reminding members of the public that fire prevention begins with simple safety measures at home, including keeping matches and lighters away from children.
In a video message posted on their social media page, a fire service officer urged parents and guardians to ensure that fire-starting devices are kept out of the reach of children when not in use.
“What is fire prevention? Fire prevention is as simple as keeping flame-making devices out of the reach of children when not in use,” the officer said.
The officer stressed that preventing fires is a daily responsibility and encouraged members of the public to take precautions to reduce the risk of children gaining access to items that could start a fire.
“Remember, fire prevention and fire safety start with you,” the officer added.
The GFS said fire prevention is something that should be practised every day, placing responsibility on individuals to take basic precautions to protect their homes and families.
In July, the GFS urged the public to take precautions against fires during the El Niño dry season, warning that hotter, drier conditions could increase the risk of wildfires. The agency advised residents not to leave fires unattended, burn rubbish or dry vegetation in hot, windy conditions, and to dispose of cigarettes safely. It also encouraged people to clear dry grass and other combustible materials from their surroundings and report fires immediately through the emergency hotline, 912. The GFS stressed that fire prevention requires collective responsibility to protect lives and property.