FIRE of as yet unknown origins yesterday razed a government building in Region 8 (Potaro/Siparuni), rendering twelve persons from four families homeless.The Regional Administration said in a press release yesterday that it received a fire call at about 14:22hrs yesterday and immediately dispatched its fire tender within four minutes of the initial call. The tender was driven by the Regional Executive Officer Ronald Harsawack and another staffer, who were both in the Administrative compound at the time of the call.

On arrival, two of the four apartments of the wooden and concrete structure were ablaze, aided by a heavy wind. The building accommodated staff from the Health, Administrative and Public Works Departments of Region 8.
Additional ranks of the Mahdia Fire Auxiliary Brigade later arrived to provide back-up, the release stated.
Two of the now homeless victims collapsed at the roadside and immediate medical attention was rendered by the doctors on site. They were subsequently treated at the Mahdia District Hospital for elevated blood pressure and smoke inhalation.
An adjoining building, which houses the doctors, was saved with only minor damage to its windows, the release said.
REO Harsawack said the 450-gallon tank supply was exhausted within three minutes of operation. At that time, the release said, the fire was initially contained, until gas cylinders exploded, sending flames throughout the entire structure. At this point, the fire tender sought to access water from an overhead reservoir from a nearby gas station, but efforts proved futile. The tender then proceeded to a nearby creek to replenish its supply.
Members of the Mahdia Fire Brigade, and staff of the Regional Administration manned the operation while assistance was rendered by public-spirited citizens. The Guyana Police Force was instrumental in keeping the large crowd away.
Twelve persons from four families lost all of their belongings. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but the Guyana Fire Service is expected to launch an investigation shortly.
REO Harsawack said the Regional Administration has made alternative arrangements for housing and other related needs for the victims.
Meanwhile, the Administration would like to thank members of the public for their support, the release added.