-As part of National Fire Prevention Week activities

AS part of the observance of the 40th National Fire Prevention Week, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) on Friday hosted an exercise at the National Park that saw fire officers interacting with a number of students from schools around the city. The main objective of this event was to raise a greater sense of awareness of fire safety and prevention.This year, the theme for the week is, “Fire Safety, a national priority, get involved.”
Students were shown outdoor demonstrations, given information about fire-fighters and tips on not only how to prevent fires, but what they can do to keep safe in the event of one. Both students and

adults were given a first-hand look at the day to day operations of the fire service.
Students were also given the opportunity to go on a fire truck and an airport fire rescue vehicle.
Sasha Adams of North Ruimveldt Secondary said that the exhibition was extremely informative. She, like many others was not aware that ranks of the fire service not only put out fires, but also responded to calls at the scene of accidents.
Otis Charles, who is the Sub-Officer in Charge at the fire unit at the Ogle Airport, explained that education on the dangers of fire is the only way to prevent them. He noted that mistakes such as going to bed with a lighted cigarette, not turning off gas cylinders, poor supervision of children at home and faulty electrical appliances and outlets can result in devastating losses.
Ed Gravesande from the West Ruimveldt Primary School said, “As a teacher, I look forward to this yearly, the various techniques, strategies and methods that they showcase. This will not only enlighten pupils, but will help adults to practise these measures at home.”
According to Chief Fire Officer Marlon Gentle, the GFS receives about six to eight calls per day in the City, and about 40-50 calls per day in outlying areas. So far this year, nine persons have lost their lives to fire.