Vendors at the corner of Croal and Cornhill streets, Stabroek, say they escaped the worst of a fire that destroyed a nearby building, with firefighters preventing the flames from spreading to KFC, Pizza Hut and surrounding properties.
During a visit by Kiskadee Watch yesterday, vendors said smoke was their main concern, while those who usually trade close to the affected building expressed relief that they were absent when the blaze erupted.
One vendor, Abby, praised the firefighters’ efforts to protect neighbouring businesses.
“Dem boys work last night, them work,” she said.
Vendors who normally occupy the corner said they were grateful they had not been there when the building became engulfed, avoiding possible injuries.
According to the Guyana Fire Service, a report of the fire was received at approximately 20:25 hrs. Three fire appliances were initially dispatched, with the first arriving at approximately 20:33 hrs.
Firefighters encountered the building fully engulfed and began operations to contain the flames and protect neighbouring properties. Three additional appliances were subsequently deployed, bringing the total to six.
The Fire Service said the blaze was confined to the building of origin and has since been completely extinguished. Investigations are ongoing to determine its origin and cause.
Beharry Restaurant Holdings Inc yesterday said that following the fire the KFC and Pizza Hut locations were affected.
“Following last night’s fire in the Stabroek area, we are grateful to the Guyana Fire Service for their swift response. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. KFC remains temporarily closed pending further assessments. We appreciate your patience and understanding and will share further updates as they become available”, the company said.
Businessman Frank S. Sanichara also praised the emergency response in a Facebook post on Friday night, saying he went to the scene after learning of the fire because a friend owned a nearby building.
“The Guyana Fire Service deserves our appreciation. I witnessed firefighters who were well-equipped, organized, and working tirelessly,” Sanichara wrote.
He also commended the Guyana Police Force for maintaining security and order at the scene.
Sanichara said an encounter with the owner of the affected business brought home the extent of the loss. According to his account, the owner told him that he did not have insurance because of his religious beliefs.
“My heart truly went out to him. Imagine standing there helplessly, watching years of hard work, sacrifice, and everything you’ve built disappear before your eyes,” he wrote.
The Fire Service commended its responding ranks for their coordination and thanked the Guyana Police Force and Banks DIH for their assistance.
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