INSIDE A PROPERTY Apoera burned down completely on Friday, while the fire brigade watched helplessly. The fire fighting vehicle was defective and a water tanker was missing. The words of district commander Humphrey Veira speak volumes: “we wanted to help, but we had to watch helplessly.” It makes clear how vulnerable society is when the fire brigade does not have the resources to intervene decisively.
This is yet another disturbing incident involving the fire brigade and undoubtedly not the last. The Suriname Fire Department is facing serious shortages of fire engines, water, protective equipment and personnel. In addition, persistent grass fires and recurring fires at the Ornamibo landfill place heavy pressure on the available capacity. The fact that firefighters are exposed to dangerous smoke and chemical gases for long periods of time makes the situation even more worrying.
When the fire brigade is inadequately equipped, society ultimately pays the price
Union president Joël Panka emphasized Radio ABC that the firemen and firewomen are in danger. “Completely and in all layers.” The personnel situation is also a cause for concern. According to Panka, the last staff addition dates back six years ago. In the meantime, approximately 140 firefighters are deployed for security duties for dignitaries, including ministers. How can this be reconciled with the fact that the fire brigade itself is seriously understaffed?
However difficult the country’s financial situation may be, one of the services that should not be cut back or cut back is the fire service. Sufficient personnel, fire fighting vehicles, water tankers and protective equipment are not a luxury, but a necessary investment in the safety of society. The union’s emergency call to no longer postpone these investments therefore deserves urgent attention and action.
Moreover, the consequences of a lame-duck fire brigade are not limited to human lives and material possessions. Paramaribo has experienced several major city fires in recent years, resulting in the loss of historic buildings. This also means that a part of history disappears, with a cultural value that can no longer be restored.
The government must therefore urgently work to strengthen the force, in addition to prevention and enforcement, to prevent further escalation. Because when the fire brigade is inadequately equipped, society ultimately pays the price. And once the fire strikes, lives, property and irreplaceable heritage may be lost.
The fact that the fire brigade no longer naturally responds to new fires in Ornamibo is diametrically opposed to the adage: ‘Go to sleep, we will watch over you’. Harmful gases can therefore threaten local residents and, depending on the wind direction, a much larger area.
Minister Harish Monorath of Justice and Security supports the fire brigade’s position and points out the responsibility of the administrators. That sounds very supportive. But if structural solutions are not provided, this above all reflects a powerless government that neglects its own responsibility. A lame fire brigade and a lame government are not a nice calling card. Foreign investors will also wonder how safe the country is. Meanwhile, the red rooster keeps crowing.
