‘Fire Brigade Week’ marked for 1st time
“FIRE Brigade Week” has been celebrated for the first time in the TRNC to recognise the work of “hero firefighters” in keeping the country safe and to raise awareness of fire prevention and intervention methods.
Events began to mark the week, which runs from September 25 to today (October 1), last weekend, with a parade on Mehmet Akif Caddesi (Dereboyu) in Lefkoşa.
In Güzelyurt and Lefke firefighters, including Güzelyurt Fire Brigade District Chief Salih Tankurt, handed out carnations bearing the emergency 199 fire helpline to surprised passers-by, listened to their questions about the fire department and provided information. Firefighters reminded the people of the emergency phone
number and informed the public about what to do in the event of a fıre.
Firefighters also visited schools and handed out information leaflets, and took part in a blood donation scheme.
Meanwhile the head of the Fire Brigade Department, which comes under the control of the Police General Directorate, has said that the most common single cause of bush and forest fires in North Cyprus is unextinguished cigarette butts discarded at the side of a road.
Ramadan Gürpınar said that such fires are also mainly caused by sparks from power cables. He stressed the importance of clearing dry weeds from underneath electricity cables at roadsides, and said that workshops have been held with municipalities on this issue.
Mr Gürpınar listed other main causes of fires as sparks from angle grinders, short circuits in electrical fittings, and overloaded electrical sockets.
He also warned of the danger of gas leaks, and stressed that if someone suspects a leak in their home it is important not to use any switches or devices such as torches and mobile phones that could cause a spark, cut off the power from the mains and open all doors and windows and use a broom to get the gas out of the property.
In winter, Mr Gürpınar said wood burners and fireplaces pose another risk of fires and also carbon monoxide poisoning if not handled correctly.
He added that the Fire Brigade has produced videos showing the correct way to light such heaters, the dangers of pouring flammable substances on them, and “what could happen if you try to warm your home with the flames of a barbecue”.