Fire destroys three buildings at Eteringbang
A fire of unknown origin destroyed three wooden buildings at Eteringbang Landing, Upper Cuyuni River yesterday, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has said, adding that an investigation has been launched to ascertain the cause of the fire.
A GFS press release said the fire occurred at approximately 03:00 hrs at Eteringbang Landing. It said that Raimundo Lucio Dos Anjos Oliveira, a 52year-old Brazilian national residing at Eteringbang Landing, said he noticed the fire erupting from the circuit board area of his two-storey building, which consists of ten rooms.
Oliveira attempted to extinguish the flames with water but was unsuccessful as the fire quickly went out of control, engulfing his building and two other abandoned structures nearby, the release said.
Efforts made by Oliveira and community members, who rallied with water pumps, contained the fire from spreading to additional buildings. There were no reported casualties, it added.
The GFS outlined steps to follow if an electrical fire occurs:
1. Stay calm: Keep calm and avoid panic.
2. Cut the power: Safely turn off the power supply to the affected area, if possible.
3. Use a fire extinguisher: If you have a suitable fire extinguisher, use it from a safe distance. Never use water on an electrical fire.
4. Evacuate: If the fire is spreading or you can’t control it, evacuate immediately.
5. Call for help: Dial 912 to report the fire.
6. Do not use water: Never use water on an electrical fire, as it can worsen the situation.
7. Wait for professionals: Allow trained firefighters to handle the situation. Do not re-enter the area until it is declared safe. Remember, safety is always the top priority.