THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has distributed approximately 6,105 fire extinguishing balls across the country so far this year as part of an expanded push to strengthen fire prevention, community preparedness and public safety.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader investment in enhancing the country’s fire prevention and emergency response capabilities, with the GFS also distributing smoke detectors to communities.
Fire extinguishing balls are supplementary fire-suppression devices designed to activate when exposed to flames. Once activated, they release an extinguishing agent over a limited area and may help suppress or slow the spread of a fire during its early stages.
The devices may be placed in certain high-risk, normally unoccupied areas, including locations near appropriate electrical equipment or other identified fire hazards, subject to manufacturers’ specifications and safety guidelines.
However, the GFS has cautioned that fire extinguishing balls should not be regarded as substitutes for approved portable fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, evacuation plans or professionally designed fire-protection systems.
Instead, the Service said, they should form part of a wider approach to fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
Residents and business owners are being urged to follow manufacturers’ instructions carefully when installing or positioning the devices, particularly regarding suitable locations and the types of fires for which individual products are designed.
The GFS has also warned members of the public against putting themselves at risk by attempting to throw a fire extinguishing ball into an established fire.
Persons are advised to evacuate immediately if a fire is spreading rapidly, producing heavy smoke or threatening to block an escape route. They should move to a safe location and contact the Guyana Fire Service at emergency number 912.
The Service said its continued distribution of fire extinguishing balls and smoke detectors reflects its commitment to strengthening fire prevention measures while increasing public awareness and preparedness nationwide.
