The Guyana Fire Service said it is noticing an upsurge in grass and garbage fires and is advising residents to be aware of the risks and dangers associated with the open burning heaps of garbage or grass.
The fire service warned that if grass or garbage fires do occur, these fires should never be left unattended as they possess the potential to become major fire emergencies. It said persons desirous of using fire as a method of land clearing or for any other purpose must obtain permission from the Guyana Fire Service before proceeding to do so.
Additionally, the service said that citizens should note that the open burning of garbage is prohibited and perpetrators can find themselves paying no less than $80,000 or spending three months in prison for the offence.
“(Persons should) desist from openly burning grass and garbage. Find other means of disposal and/or land clearing. Never leave a grass or garbage fire unattended, these fires can quickly get out of hand and spread rapidly. Report large grass and garbage fires to the fire department,” the fire service said.
It continued, “Do not throw cigarette or cigar butts on the ground or out of a vehicle. Dispose of them properly and make sure they are completely extinguished. Be mindful of parking vehicles on dry grass or shrubs. Exhaust systems on vehicles can reach a temperature of more than 1000 degrees and it only takes about 500 degrees to start a fire during the dry season.”
The fire service further urged parents to emphasize to their children the dangers of playing with fire as some grass fires are started by children who have no idea how quickly flames can grow and spread. In addition, citizens were urged to keep a shovel, bucket of water, fire extinguisher, or other fire suppression tools on hand.
