By Fabiana Mcklmon
Residents of Wortmanville, Georgetown, found themselves grappling with the consequences of a nearby grass fire today, as thick smoke blanketed the area.
According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), they received a distress call at approximately 10:26 AM, alerting them to the blaze.
Divisional Officer Operations, Otis Charles, explained that while the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, there is suspicion that it may have ignited due to improper disposal of garbage.
Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters discovered that the fire had engulfed dry vegetation, including grass, as well as a vehicle parked within the vacant lot.
Charles noted the hazardous nature of the situation, highlighting the potential for combustion given the presence of rubber materials in the vehicle.
In the midst of the emergency response, David Wallace, a resident of Wortmanville, expressed concern over the danger posed by the fire to the entire neighborhood.
He urged relevant authorities to take proactive measures to address the issue, particularly by ensuring that vacant lots are properly cleared and maintained to prevent such incidents in the future.
Firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, but not without emphasizing the importance of responsible waste management.
They urged citizens to refrain from starting fires for the purpose of burning garbage, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to maintain safety and cleanliness within communities.
As Wortmanville residents assess the aftermath of the grass fire, calls for preventative action resonate, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to mitigate fire hazards and safeguard communities against potential risks.