By Delicia Janneire
Authorities are issuing a stern warning to the public following a significant fire that inflicted extensive damage on the Sea Defense shoreline in Region 5.
Between February 24 and March 3 of this year, Region Five experienced a series of fires that severely impacted the Mangrove Sea Defense.
During a recent press briefing, authorities highlighted the seriousness of careless fire-setting practices, which led to a seven-day effort to extinguish the blaze, resulting in an estimated cost of $6 million.
The firefighting efforts involved a collaborative approach, with multiple agencies including the Guyana Fire Service, the Regional Democratic Council of Region 5, Guysuco, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, and the Ministry of Public Works River and Sea Defense arm.
The blaze, which originated in the Bath Settlement area, emitted heavy smoke for days and nights, affecting villages spanning from Hopetown to Bath Settlement. Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal emphasized the importance of early reporting of fires to mitigate damage.
“If there is a fire in an open area, with lots of vegetation; grass fire and so forth, let us immediately report that,” urged Ramphal.
He stressed the need to prevent such incidents from escalating, referencing the prolonged effort required to extinguish the Bath Settlement fire.
Denbar Quintyn, Regional Commander of the Guyana Fire Service, pleaded with citizens to refrain from setting fires, emphasizing the risks associated with such actions, especially in dry and windy conditions.
He urged smokers to responsibly dispose of cigarette butts to prevent accidental fires.
The aftermath of the fire resulted in several individuals being hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and responsibility when dealing with fire, to prevent similar incidents in the future.