GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Feb 10, CMC – Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is urging the public to adopt fire prevention measures as well as ensure that electrical systems are properly installed and maintained, after two people, including a teacher, died as a result of a fire on Sunday.
In a statement, the GFS said that it had responded to the fire at the East Bank Essequibo during the early hours, that claimed the lives of Hansraj Narine, 57, and Hemwattie Narine, 52.
It said that despite the rapid response, the fire had already engulfed the building, leaving no time for the occupants to escape. The structure and all its contents were completely destroyed.
The GFS said that preliminary investigations showed that the fire was caused by a slack electrical connection, “which resulted in arcing and sparking that ignited nearby combustible materials”.
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, and Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham have extend “their deepest condolences to the grieving family and community affected by this tragic loss”.
Benn said that a full investigation is underway to determine all contributing factors and to prevent similar occurrences in the future, while Wickham has reiterated the importance of fire safety and adherence to electrical maintenance protocols.
He is urging all citizens to take necessary precautions to safeguard their homes and families with the GFS saying that while it “continues to educate the public on fire prevention measures and the importance of ensuring electrical systems are properly installed and maintained”.
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