A total of 235 fire hydrants were found to be inoperable in Georgetown following an assessment by the Guyana Fire Service on Wednesday.
Some 121 hydrants are fully functional, but need minor maintenance such as painting, the Fire Service said in a statement.
“The Guyana Fire Service, at the direction of His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, is now responsible
for the inspection, maintenance and operation of all fire hydrants across the city,” the Fire Service said.
The assessment of several hydrants was done on Wednesday by the Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud, Fire Chief Kalamadeen Edoo and other officials.
“To date three hundred fifty-six (356) fire hydrants have been inspected following a collaboration with the Guyana Fire Service and Guyana Water Incorporated,” the Fire Service stated.
Fire hydrants play a vital role in saving lives and property in the event of a fire.
As such, the Fire Service is urging members of the public to do their part to ensure these hydrants remain operable and accessible at all times.
Do not block fire hydrants, Fire Service urges
Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times.
The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire hydrants.
Citizens are also urged to ensure fire hydrants are protected and to report incidents of vandalism to the Police or the Guyana Fire Service.