The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is urging residents to stop burning garbage, warning that a seemingly harmless clean-up can quickly turn into a major fire, particularly under the current hot and dry conditions.

The service cautioned that a change in wind direction can carry flames into nearby grass, wooden fences, buildings and homes, allowing a small rubbish fire to spread beyond control.

It also warned that smoke from burning garbage can affect people living and working in surrounding communities.

Residents are being encouraged to dispose of waste responsibly by placing garbage in suitable containers for collection or using other approved disposal methods.

The Fire Service further advised that rubbish should be kept away from fences, buildings and dry vegetation. Where garbage collection is limited or delayed, residents should seek guidance from their local authorities rather than resorting to burning.

Property owners are also being urged to keep vacant lots and unoccupied spaces free of accumulated rubbish, which can provide fuel for spreading fires.

Should a rubbish fire begin to spread, the GFS says residents are advised to move to safety, alert others nearby and immediately contact the Guyana Fire Service. Callers should provide clear information about the location, including nearby landmarks, and details of any threatened buildings. Access routes should also be kept clear for responding firefighters.

The service stressed that residents should never put themselves at risk by attempting to control a fire that is spreading.

The warning comes as firefighters continue to respond to brush and grass fires at various locations amid the prevailing dry and hot weather.

A recent garbage fire near the Canje Bridge on Friday sent thick smoke into the air and disrupted traffic as flames spread through dry vegetation, coming within approximately 100 metres of the National Communications Network (NCN) building.

The Fire Service said the incident was among several fires it had been called upon to tackle in recent days, with some threatening homes, businesses and other properties.

In urging residents to take greater responsibility for waste disposal, the service reminded the public that indiscriminate rubbish burning can endanger entire communities.

“Don't let your rubbish become your community's disaster!” the Fire Service urged, encouraging residents to prevent fires before they start by stopping indiscriminate garbage burning.

Credit: GFS