Latest update February 8th, 2025 6:23 PM
Latest News
- Soaring gold price entices Canadian company to renew permits in Guyana
- Terrence Campbell accuses Govt. of weaponizing Police Force after calls for accountability with oil revenues
- China slams US as Panama quits Belt and Road Initiative
- Guyana extradites fugitive to Canada
- AFC Leader Nigel Hughes welcomes any investigation into lands he acquired
12 lives lost in fires so far this year
Dead: Totaram Mootoo and his wife Dhajmatie
The year 2013 could go down as one of the most devastating years in terms of fires. So far 12 persons, including four children have perished in fires for this year.
This is according to figures revealed by Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee during his address to launch this year’s Fire Prevention Week.
The report noted that 297 persons were left homeless as a result of fires so far this year.
To date the Guyana Fire Service has responded to 1309 fire calls; 94 buildings were destroyed and 19 others were severely damaged by fire.
Three schools were affected by fire, one of which was completely destroyed and another severely damaged.
According to the Home Affairs Minister, of the total number of fires so far for the year, 44 resulted from arson, sparked by domestic disputes, property disputes or wanton destruction to property, through acts of criminality and other nefarious acts.
Six hundred and twenty nine were the result of rubbish or vegetation fires.
Rohee disclosed that the causes of most of these fires stemmed from unsafe practices such as carelessness– leaving children unattended, from unsafe use and stealing of electricity and acts of arson.
The minister said, “Let us rededicate ourselves to preventing tragedy before it strikes and practice fire safety in our homes and workplaces. Every effort should be made to teach your family about fire safety. All of us can take meaningful steps to reduce the risk of fire in our homes.”
Fire Prevention Week commence on Sunday under the theme:- BE ALERT, BE COMMITTED, MAKE FIRE SAFETY YOUR PRIORITY.
“From the beginning of time, fire has been used for a variety of purposes, including providing for man’s existence and development. It still continues to do so. However, Guyana can ill afford the devastating consequences of uncontrollable fires on our nation’s economic and social well being. Fires continue to have devastating effects on our communities and the country as a whole,” Rohee said.
During this Fire Prevention Week, the Guyana Fire Service will enhance its efforts in promoting Fire Safety, through expanded public awareness and education activities.
This will include fire safety exhibitions, radio and television programmes, visits to schools, as well as developing communities. They will also be increasing their presence in places of public assembly, government ministries, and private institutions countrywide.
The minister pointed to the present dry season, noting that there is a likelihood of an increase in grass/bush fires, which can occur through spontaneous ignition or deliberate setting by a few who show no regard for the well being of others.
He reminded citizens that rubbish fires and bush fires are often unpredictable, which is why it is essential for people to practice proper fire prevention.
The Mootoo’s Turkeyen house was deliberately set afire.
“It must be remembered that these fires can become uncontrollable and spread to buildings. If there is a need for persons to dispose of rubbish and vegetation, it should be done by means other than the use of fire. Citizens must be cognizant of the fact that these fires can affect your neighbours as well as the environment and also damage public properties,” the Minister advised.
“I implore you parents and guardians, do not leave small children unattended and always keep matches and lighters out of their reach. As far as possible, refrain from leaving elderly or sick persons alone in the home,” he added.
Similar Articles
THE BLUNT OF THE DAY
Sports
Features/Columnists
Due diligence on investments must become a priority
Peeping Tom… Kaieteur News- In 1985, the Forbes Burnham government looking for economic salvation, entered into a memorandum... more
OAS Secretary General Election and renewed OAS Consensus
Antiguan Barbudan Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders By Sir Ronald Sanders Kaieteur News- The upcoming election... more
Weekend Cartoon
