THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) yesterday conducted a fire drill at the Guyana National Newspaper Limited (GNNL)/Guyana Chronicle in an effort to enhance its fire-safety capacity.

Fireman Gleyndon David, after alerting staffers of using the fire alert alarm in the building, ensured that they evacuated the one-storey edifice in a timely manner.
Thereafter, he engaged them in a discussion on several fire-safety methods, including the use of a fire extinguisher and general topics on fire safety.
The following methods pertaining to preparations for a fire were explained to staffers of the Guyana Chronicle by David.
A fire is something serious David said, adding that even though it is just a drill and even though one might have participated in these since one was a small child, this does not mean that one should not treat it as though it is an actual emergency.
Children will take their cue from adults; if one should talk about how silly it is or act as if it is not worthwhile or important, then children won’t respect it either.

David reminded staffers about the need for remaining calm during the outbreak of a fire. He said that this (the drill) seems like a given, but sometimes the supervisors cause more problems than the staffers by not remaining calm from the beginning.
“You should act seriously and be in charge. No yelling; no getting excited. Just tell your students or staffers to line up calmly,” David exhorted.

He also told staffers to demand excellent behaviour and to make sure workers stay together.
David added that once you get to the assembly area, there will be some time before the all-clear signal is given. During this waiting period, you will want your workers to stay with you. Therefore, make sure that you stay with your workers and enforce your rules.
“You can use this time to chat with your workers in a more relaxed atmosphere. However, always remember that the boss or supervisor is in charge and is ultimately responsible for the drill, David explained.

He also demonstrated to staffers how to use a fire extinguisher using the P-A-S-S method; the acronym P-A-S-S means Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep.

He also said that when one is finished using the fire extinguisher, it should be placed on its side on the floor. It will be collected and recharged after the fire scene is secured.
The management and staff of the Guyana Chronicle would like to thank the Guyana Fire Service which is led by Fire Chief Marlon Gentle; his deputy Winston McGregor; Divisional Commander, Compton Sparman and also Fireman Gleyndon David for this initiative.