AS firefighting teams continue their battle against a stubborn subsurface fire in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken center stage in safeguarding public health through rigorous environmental monitoring.
The fire, which began at a sawmill waste dump, has been contained within a valley but continues to smolder beneath layers of organic and waste material, producing persistent smoke that affects nearby communities.

According to a press release, the EPA’s response has focused on real-time air quality surveillance, particularly monitoring levels of carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), both of which are critical indicators of air pollution and respiratory risk.
According to the latest EPA findings, CO levels in the community have remained within World Health Organization (WHO) standards. However, the agency has received multiple reports of discomfort and health impacts, especially among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children with asthma, and the elderly.

Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities, keep windows and doors closed, and use N95 masks when venturing outside if smoke is heavy.
The EPA has also urged the community to remain vigilant for symptoms like breathing difficulty, coughing, dizziness, or chest tightness, and to seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms arise.

The EPA’s ongoing monitoring is not only a public health measure but also a critical component of disaster risk management.
The agency continues to assess air quality and public health risks, providing technical guidance to the Guyana Fire Service, Civil Defence Commission (CDC), and health authorities. Should risk levels escalate, the EPA said it is prepared to issue immediate advisories to ensure timely interventions.