– Fire Chief
CHIEF Fire Officer Marlon Gentle, noting the increasing incidence of grass fires, has warned the public to be more conscious of such occurrences.

He spoke after the most recent that occurred yesterday morning, when the Guyana Fire Service doused a blaze on the parapet in the vicinity of the Government Technical Institute (GTI) and averted a potentially dangerous situation.

The grass fire on the parapet next to the Guyana Technical Institute. (Photo by Vanessa Narine)

He said climate changes, particularly the El Nino phenomenon, and other weather patterns increase the risk of such conflagrations but many are also caused by people discarding lighted cigarettes or burning refuse.

Mr. Gentle said burning garbage or any other discards on open plots must be done with an awareness of the possible danger.

He pointed out that individuals found responsible for causing fires indiscriminately are liable to prosecution.

He explained that a concerted effort is being made to conduct sensitisation programmes.

He said persons mindful of the environment in collaboration with the GFS, are overseeing this endeavour.

Gentle said during the past week, when Fire Prevention Week was being observed, the programme got a boost through the theme ‘Fire Prevention deserves everyone’s attention’.

The activities included four exhibitions at Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara; Diamond, East Bank Demerara; Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, and the National Park in Georgetown.

Fire Stations also hosted open days to schools, staged drills and gave talks.