Official: Take ownership of fire hydrants

THE PNG Fire Service in Lae is appealing to the public to take ownership of fire hydrants within their areas.
Fire Service shift supervisor Heric Hariepe said it was getting harder to find hydrants around the city as many had been covered during road constructions, people heap rubbish on them, or temper with them.
“Fire hydrants is a vital asset that must be protected and remain visible at all times,” he said.
Hariepe said firemen first use the reserve water in the truck tank upon arriving at a fire scene as another firemen hook the tank up to the hydrant.
“This tank water takes around five minutes to discharge so a fire hydrant must be located within three to four minutes.
“Without a hydrant, we will fail, meaning we won’t be able to save the property or person.”
He said construction companies doing road works must at least leave red indicator posts.
Meanwhile, he called on everyone to be fire cautious and exercise fire safety tips.
Hariepe also encouraged families to buy fire extinguishers for their homes.