The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has distributed approximately 6,105 fire-extinguishing balls across the country so far this year as part of an expanded fire-prevention programme.
In a statement, the GFS said the devices are intended to supplement existing fire-safety measures and may help to suppress or slow a fire during its early stages.
The balls are designed to activate when exposed to flames, dispersing an extinguishing agent over a limited area. Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, they may be placed in high-risk areas that are normally unoccupied, including near electrical equipment or other identified fire hazards.
The GFS cautioned, however, that the devices should not be regarded as substitutes for approved portable fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, evacuation plans or professionally designed fire-protection systems.
Residents and business owners were advised to follow the manufacturer’s instructions governing installation, placement and the classes of fire for which the devices are suitable, since their effectiveness may vary.
The public was also warned against attempting to throw an extinguishing ball into a developed fire. The GFS said that where a fire is spreading rapidly, producing heavy smoke or threatening to block an exit, persons should evacuate immediately, move to a safe location and call the emergency number 912.
According to the statement, the distribution of the balls and smoke detectors forms part of the fire service’s wider programme of fire prevention, public education and community safety.
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