In 2024, a series of fires destroyed approximately eighty-six (86) properties across Regions Five and Six. This was revealed by Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald.
According to McDonald throughout 2024, the Fire Stations within both regions collectively responded to a staggering 762 emergency calls. Of these, 465 incidents were categorized as grass fires, indicating a potentially hazardous fire season.
“During the dry season, the Fire Service responded to a lot of grass and rubbish fires. 86 of those were properties, and out of that, only 72 were malicious, in nature,” McDonald disclosed.
The repercussions of these fires were severe, leaving 126 individuals homeless and upending families and lives in the process.
Tragically, the toll of these incidents extended beyond property loss, with six individuals losing their lives while trapped in their homes during fiery emergencies.
“Five of those were at Number 64 Village where the mother and four children died, “McDonald revealed. McDonald further divulged that the fire at Number 64 Village, Corentyne Berbice, was maliciously set.
