Forest fires threaten homes, farmland in Karisparu

Forest fires in Karisparu, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), have damaged agricultural lands and housing materials, with several residential properties remaining under threat as a multi-agency team works to contain the risks and assess the damage.

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), in collaboration with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), is coordinating the response to the fires, which were reported on Sunday.

Initial reports suggest that the fires may have started when garbage was burned within the community before spreading out of control and threatening nearby homes, agricultural lands and other infrastructure. A joint response team was deployed to Karisparu to conduct damage assessments, identify areas at risk and determine the measures needed to address the situation. Preliminary assessments have confirmed damage to agricultural lands and housing materials, while several residential properties remain at risk.

The team is also monitoring the condition of the main access bridge over Karisparu Creek, which connects the airstrip to the village and serves as an important access route for residents. As part of the response, the agencies said that they conducted a community sensitisation exercise, during which residents were advised about forest-fire prevention, the dangers of open burning and safe garbage disposal practices. Residents were reminded that flames, sparks and burning materials can spread beyond the intended area, particularly during dry conditions, and quickly become difficult to control.

The agencies urged residents to avoid open burning and exercise caution when undertaking activities that could start fires, warning that such incidents can threaten homes, livelihoods, agricultural lands and critical infrastructure.

The response comes as Guyana prepares for risks associated with the current Super El Niño conditions. A statement from CDC on Saturday said that earlier this year, the Government established a multi-agency committee to coordinate national preparedness and response efforts. The committee continues to conduct public awareness activities across all 10 administrative regions, monitor emerging threats and maintain readiness to mobilise resources when necessary.

The CDC said it will continue to monitor the situation in Karisparu and coordinate with the GDF, GFS, GFC and other relevant agencies as assessments progress.

The Commission also urged residents to take fire risks seriously, avoid open burning, particularly during dry conditions, and report activities or situations that could endanger their communities.