The rebranding and extension of the Guyana Fire Service needs parliamentary acquiescence, Fire Prevention Officer Andrew Holder said on Thursday, while speaking to Stabroek News about plans to include other services.
Holder made observation during an exhibition and educational activity held at the Guyana Fire Service, Stabroek, Georgetown to mark Fire Prevention Day.
Fire Prevention Week is currently being observed under the theme ‘Fire Safety, a National Priority – Get Involved Now’ and features a number of activities aimed at sensitising the general public on fire safety.
Pamphlets on fire safety were handed out and a range of equipment used by fire fighters
was showcased including the modernised hand controlled branch which gives the fire fighter the ability to control the pressure of the water and regulate the spray to cover a wider circumference in contrast to the noble branch, which featured a straight forward spray.
Persons who were in the vicinity of the Stabroek area on Thursday were also able to access firsthand information from fire officers and were given the opportunity to use the two types of fire extinguishers: the Dry Powder and the Co2 or Carbon Dioxide to extinguish an actual fire.
Fireman Semple who was assisting persons in the use of the equipment which were on display told Stabroek News that all the fire trucks were equipped with the items. As he pointed out and explained their functions, an electrical circular saw was highlighted which he said is used to cut through iron bars that prevent entry to burning buildings.
Breathing apparatus was shown, which he said is used in environments where there is air pollution that is hazardous to health. Semple added that the apparatus enables a fireman to access an area engulfed with smoke and still be able to breathe freely.
A ground monitor was visibly displayed which basically carried two ports to accommodate connections for water supply. The fireman stated that the ground monitor is usually stationary and would release a consistent spray. Fire garments and a first aid kit were also amongst some of the other items which were seen.
Meanwhile, Holder said Thursday’s activity marked the celebration of 40 years of fire prevention work.
A similar activity was scheduled for yesterday at the National Park and schools across Georgetown and its environs were expected to participate. Holder further stated that an exhibition will be held at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground next Wednesday and another at Lusignan ground next Thursday.
Asked about use of the first aid kit on display, Holder indicated that the GFS is currently training individuals to offer professional first aid service, since its objective is to rebrand itself with the name Guyana Fire and Rescue Service.
He alluded to the fact that the GFS once had an ambulance and boat service available and they are working to restore those services to the general public.
According to Semple, the Fire Service is already in possession of two ambulances but they are unable to offer the service at the moment; these will come on stream after the proposed name change is effected.
At the exhibition, which commenced at 9am and concluded at 2pm members of the public were also given a chance to win cash prizes when they correctly answered questions posed by Holder.
