7 persons are now homeless following a fire this morning at Lot 135 Blairmont #4 Settlement, West Bank Berbice. A child who was playing with a lighter which ignited a mattress and caused the fire to spread throughout the entire building is believed to be the cause of the fire, according to a release from the Guyana Fire Service. The structure involved was a one flat wooden building owned and occupied by sixty-five year old Heeralall Bishunlall and a family of six (6). The building and its contents were destroyed as a result of the fire, leaving seven (7) persons homeless.
Meanwhile, the Guyana Fire Service is urging Citizens to take the necessary precautions to avoid these tragedies.
Make use of fire prevention and firefighting devices such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. If these items cannot be afforded or sourced, ensure that there is a bucket of sand or adequate water within reach in the event of a fire.
Keep fire starters out of the reach of children and educate them on the dangers of playing with them.
Pay keen attention to children and be aware of your surroundings.