The Guyana Fire Service today commenced its Annual Officers’ Conference under the theme “Strengthening our capabilities through training and the use of technology for a safer Guyana”.

The Conference saw presentations from Senior Officers of the Guyana Fire Service and was attended by the Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Robeson Benn, Permanent Secretary Ms Mae Toussaint-Thomas, Commissioner of Police (Ag), Clifton Hicken, Chief of CANU, James Singh, Colonel General Staff GDF, Julius Skeete, Director of Prisons (Ag), Nicklon Elliott, Chief Fire Officer (Ag), Gregory Wickham and Senior Officers of the Guyana Service.

During opening remarks the Chief Fire Officer (Ag), Gregory Wickham, highlighted that the GFS has completed ninety-three percent (93%) of the ten point strategic plan outlined for last year.

He said the Guyana Fire Service is committed to its mandate and will work assiduously to keep its flag flying high.

The CFO was proud to report the establishment of a Health and Safety Committee within the Service as well as the expansion of the Emergency Medical Services which has aided over three thousand citizens, including the delivery of more than twenty babies.

Home Affairs Minister Hon. Robeson Benn during brief remarks noted the need for awareness, alacrity and assertiveness, as well as advanced training within the Fire Service.

He highlighted that equipment care and maintenance is vital, noting that Water Tenders are one of the most expensive assets purchased by the Ministry.

The establishment of several new fire stations as well as the need for more stations across the country were also mentioned by the Minister who said that the Guyana Fire Service must be able to adapt to new technology in order to be prepared for the vast developments in the Oil and Gas Industry.

He mentioned that fire Safety and Prevention training is being conducted with members of the Community Policing Group across the country, an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and the knowledge needed to prevent and extinguish fires.

The Minister further said that a large quantity of fire balls and smoke detectors will be purchased and distributed to citizens as a method of fire prevention. He also encouraged engagements with the Private Sector and Insurance Companies to assist in raising awareness regarding fire safety and prevention.

Minister Benn also informed the gathering that a special campaign will be launched for the inspection of buildings across the country.

The Conference will continue tomorrow with further presentations and a team building workshop for the Officers.