The GFS on Monday launched the second phase of its Fire Investigation Training Programme, with members of the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service facilitating the practical component of the initiative aimed at strengthening the service’s fire investigation capabilities.
According to a Guyana Fire Service (GFS) statement, the programme, which officially opened on Monday at the GFS Training School at Leonora, began on June 8 with an intensive theoretical component and has now moved into practical training where participants will receive hands-on instruction in modern fire investigation techniques.
The training is being led by certified fire investigation professionals from the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service: Assistant Divisional Fire Officer Ishmael Noel, Station Officer Sheldon Gibbs, Fire Sub-Officer Imrit Ramnanan and Firefighter Akil Glasgow.
The GFS said participants will receive training in basic fire investigation, the proper use of personal protective equipment, the use of fire scene props and simulation materials, evidence collection procedures, scene excavation techniques, and photography and documentation for investigative purposes.
Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, in brief remarks at the opening, credited the Government of Guyana for its continued support of the fire service’s capacity-building efforts. He said training of this nature was important to improving service to the public and urged participants to make full use of the opportunity to strengthen their investigative skills.
Divisional Officer Haimchandra Persaud thanked Trinidad and Tobago Fire Chief Andy Hutchinson for supporting the training initiative. He said the programme would improve the quality of fire reports and investigations.
According to the statement, the programme places particular emphasis on scene safety, the preservation of evidence for court proceedings and the use of scientific methods to determine the origin and cause of fires while ensuring investigations meet professional and legal standards.
The GFS said the intermediate phase of the programme is scheduled for September, with the long-term objective of establishing a dedicated Fire Investigation Unit capable of conducting professional, scientific and court-ready fire investigations across Guyana.
The service said the initiative is intended to enhance public safety, improve investigative standards and support the administration of justice through professional fire investigation practices.
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