Public Advisory Poor Visibility and Fire Hazards

Public Advisory Poor Visibility and Fire Hazards

Public Advisory Poor Visibility and Fire Hazards

In light of recent developments, the Ministry of Home Affairs issues a public advisory regarding poor visibility and fire hazards affecting several areas across Guyana. The decrease in visibility is attributed to ground fog and smoke resulting from grass fires in various regions, notably the East Bank to Timehri areas, the Linden Soesdyke Highway, and the West Bank area. These fires arise from a combination of spontaneous combustion and human-induced land clearing and waste destruction.

As the dry season persists, the risk of fires spreading rapidly and becoming unmanageable is heightened. The Guyana Hydro-Meteorological Service forecasts the dry spell to continue until the end of April. Given these circumstances, the Ministry urges all road users to exercise extreme caution.

Motorists are advised to reduce speed and utilize both high and low beams, or hazard lights, as appropriate, to navigate through the challenging conditions of ground fog and smoke. Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution and visibility aids when traversing affected areas.

Moreover, smoke inhalation poses significant health risks. To safeguard residents’ well-being, the Ministry recommends adhering to the following precautions:

• Stay indoors whenever possible, with windows and doors closed to minimize smoke exposure.
• Limit outdoor activities and wear masks for protection when venturing outside.
• Utilize air conditioning systems to filter indoor air.
• Stay informed by monitoring advisories issued by the Fire Service and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Consider alternate routes to avoid smoke-affected areas when traveling.

The Ministry emphasizes the importance of exercising caution and protecting vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

Contractors, land developers, and farmers are urged to refrain from initiating fires on or near their properties. Inspections by the Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Police Force will be conducted to determine the cause and source of fires, with perpetrators facing legal consequences.

Citizens are implored to abstain from starting fires and to assist in extinguishing any fires if possible. In case of emergencies, promptly contact 912.

The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasizes that cooperation and vigilance from all residents are crucial in mitigating hazards and ensuring community safety.

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