The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is grappling with an increasing number of wildfires due to El Niño conditions, presenting a significant challenge for fire control efforts.
In response to these difficulties, Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, has provided crucial advice for citizens across the country.
Wildfires have surged in prevalence, posing threats to both the environment and public safety, as well as local communities.
Minister Benn highlighted the tireless efforts of firefighters who are working diligently, often under demanding conditions, to combat these blazes and prevent further devastation.
He emphasized the need for the GFS to reevaluate its approach, particularly in open areas.
Minister Benn stressed the critical importance of heightened vigilance, underscoring the severe risks associated with wildfires.
He warned of the potential harm to natural ecosystems, agriculture, homes, and urged people to refrain from indiscriminate lighting of fires, especially during this dry season.
Recent statistics from the Guyana Fire Service revealed that on a single day, there were twenty-three reported fires, with twenty-one classified as wildfires.
This highlights the urgent need for continued vigilance and proactive fire prevention measures.
In a recent incident, firefighters dedicated over 10 hours to containing, monitoring, and extinguishing a deliberately set wildfire in Rome, East Bank Demerara.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the GFS in their efforts to control and mitigate wildfires.
Reported by Nakasia Logan for NCN News