Joint response mobilised to address Forest Fires in Karisparu, Region Eight
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), along with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF),
Guyana Fire Service (GFS), and Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), are coordinating a
response to ongoing forest fires affecting the community of Karisparu, Region Eight.
Initial reports indicate that the fires were deliberately set by burning garbage within the
community, which subsequently spread beyond control.
The joint response team is currently on the ground in Karisparu, actively conducting
damage assessments. The agencies are working collaboratively to assess the extent of the damage, identify areas at risk, and implement the necessary response measures.
Preliminary assessments indicate that the fires have caused damage to agricultural lands
and housing materials, while several residential properties remain under threat. Of
particular concern is the potential impact on the main access bridge spanning Karisparu
Creek, which connects the airstrip to the village.
As part of the ongoing response, the joint team also conducted a community sensitisation exercise with residents of Karisparu, focusing on forest fire prevention, the dangers associated with open burning, and the importance of adopting safe practices to minimise the risk of further incidents.
Additionally, in response to the current Super El Niño conditions, the Government of
Guyana established a multi-agency committee earlier this year to coordinate national
preparedness and response efforts. The committee continues to sensitise all ten
administrative regions, while actively monitoring emerging threats and maintaining
readiness to mobilise resources and respond to any developing situation.
The CDC will continue to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with the relevant
agencies to facilitate an effective response.
Citizens are strongly advised to refrain from open burning, particularly during dry conditions, and to exercise extreme caution when undertaking activities that may result
in uncontrolled forest fires.
The Civil Defence Commission remains committed to safeguarding lives, livelihoods and
critical infrastructure and will provide further updates as additional information becomes available.
