67 buildings destroyed by fire from January to September in Berbice – Divisional Fire Officer

Approximately 67 structures were lost to fire in Regions Five and Six between January and September of this year. This was revealed  by Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald during a church service on Sunday that kicked off Fire Prevention Month.

This year’s observation of Fire Prevention Month is being held under the theme, “Let’s prevent fires, for the development of a safer nation.”

In 2025, the fire department in these two regions responded to a total of 264 emergency calls, including 67 related to private homes, which resulted in 105 individuals becoming homeless.

McDonald said that the fires that destroyed these properties had various causes.

“I encourage all citizens of this division, Berbice, to install and maintain smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and to practice a fire escape plan that includes at least two ways out of every room,” he said.

Given that the current dry season poses a high risk for wildfires, he is encouraging residents to clear combustible vegetation and to adhere to fire safety practices to help minimise the risk of such incidents.

On September 25th, an electrical fire devastated the home of Shenieza Yussuf in Crabwood Creek, Corentyne Berbice, causing nine people to lose their home.
“As we mark Fire Prevention Month, by recommitting to prepare, we extend our thoughts and prayers to all those who have been affected by fire this year,” he stated.

McDonald shared essential fire prevention tips for workplaces and schools, emphasising the importance of keeping flammable materials away from heat, never leave cooking unattended, check firefighting systems, and use electrical equipment as per the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper installation and maintenance.