The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is urging residents, motorists, businesses and contractors to keep fire hydrants clear of vehicles, garbage, construction materials and other obstructions. The Service said fire hydrants are a critical source of water for firefighters during emergencies, and any obstruction can delay access to the water needed to combat fires. “Seconds matter during a fire emergency,” the GFS said, warning that blocked hydrants can result in valuable time being lost and may place property and lives at risk. The public is being advised not to park vehicles in front of or too close to fire hydrants, dump garbage or waste around them, or store construction materials and other objects nearby.

The Fire Service is also reminding members of the public not to tamper with, damage or misuse hydrants, and to ensure that they remain visible and easily accessible at all times. According to the GFS, under the Motor Vehicles and Road Safety Act, Chapter 51:02, it is illegal to park, stop or leave a vehicle in a manner that blocks or interferes with access to a fire hydrant.

The Service is therefore calling on members of the public to help keep hydrants accessible as part of efforts to improve fire response and community safety.