Public invited to visit fire stations

GINA, GUYANA, Monday, October 10, 2016

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is inviting members of the public to visit fire stations in their community.

Station Officer with responsibility for fire prevention Andrew Holder is encouraging people to engage their local fire fighters to learn about fire prevention and safety measures.  “All fire stations as of Monday are open for visits by members of the public, if there are any questions you may have in your minds as it relates to fire fighting approach (or) fire safety,” Holder said.

The activity is part Fire Prevention Week which is being observed from October 9 to 16. Holder told the Government Information Agency that opening the fire stations to the public is also part of clearing up misconceptions held by the public.

“Some people would say that, oh the fire trucks don’t get water when we come. People seem to think that, okay, whenever there is no fire, firemen just lay back and play dominoes. Here is your opportunity to visit fire stations around the country ask questions, inquire what goes on a daily basis,” Holder explained.

He said fire fighters provide a number of services and they are kept busy even when there is no fire. “There is always something meaningful that fire-fighters are engaged in be it training or responding to some other non-fire emergency such as rendering humanitarian service on the road, special service. So feel free to visit any fire station within your area during this week any question you can ask,” Holder said.

The GFS has scheduled a month long education awareness programme. The theme for this year’s Fire Prevention Week is, “Fire safety: A collective responsibility for the preservation of lives and property.”

 

By: Tiffny Rhodius