Fire prevention is self-protection
─ Fire Prevention Week 2019 kicks off
─ Schools, businesses, govt ministries to benefit from safety precaution workshops
DPI, Guyana, Monday, October 7, 2019
Saving lives, protecting property and safeguarding the environment is the focus of this year’s Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12 2019). The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) ushered in its week of activities with a church service at the Theatre Guild, Kingston on Sunday last.
Fire Chief Marlon Gentle noted that while strides have been made in fire prevention and safety, there are still key areas which the service will focus on to ensure citizens properly sensitised on general fire safety. In particular Gentle pointed to the increase in outdoor fires and the attending environmental risks.
“We have recognised that for the last four to five years there has been an increase in fire calls dealing with outdoor fires. For example, persons using fire to clear land. These activities have an impact on the environment and lives as well since it can affect persons’ health.”
To this end, the Fire Chief said they will be conducting several sensitisation outreaches in schools, businesses and government ministries and agencies. The aim, he said, is to reiterate the importance of fire safety. “Fire safety starts with every one of us; what we do and how we go about our daily activities that too has an impact on how safely we operate and how safe we are… Citizens have a very important role to play because fire safety starts with them; they need to exercise that caution that risk-elimination.”
Gentle also noted that the excise will also focus on fire safety in businesses since there several companies that are yet to adhere to rules and regulations of the Fire Prevention Act.
In addition to the outreaches, lectures and inspection of government buildings and private businesses will also be conducted. The week will culminate with a Fire Safety Fair and Exhibition at the D’Urban Park on October 11 and wrap up with the commissioning of a fireboat on October 12.
Fire Prevention Week 2019 coincides with the Guyana Fire Service’s 62nd anniversary since its establishment in 1957.