Train guards on safety

 The PNG Fire Services (PNGFS) has offered a sobering thought about fire risks in buildings, including business premises and homes. 

It says most companies spent a lot on security for the smaller costs of theft but paid little attention to the bigger risk of fires.

With the high number of security guards in the country, the PNGFS even suggests they can be trained on fire safety.

PNGFS said there was a gap in the inspection of buildings-in-use by building boards and this was a major concern. The adaption of buildings, such as turning an office building into a nightclub, posed a major threat, it said.

Inspections can become more effective by coordinating with other regulatory bodies such as liquor licensing committees and factory and industrial inspectors, PNGFS said.

Chief Fire Officer Isaac Silas said PNGFS members sat on most building boards in the country but these boards did not cover all of PNG.

“We make sure our in-built fire safety requirements are followed but it is up to the owners to keep to the systems,” he said. “Older buildings need up-to-date inspections.

“Most companies spend a lot on security for the smaller cost of theft but pay little attention to the bigger problem of fires.

“There are more security guards in PNG than the defence force and they should be trained to be alert to and report on fire hazards.”

Silas said PNGFS made attempts to partner responsible authorities in the past but response was a rather poor. Home owners are prompted to invite their local fire officers to their homes or suburbs to provide awareness on fire safety.

The nature and outcome of fires vary according to such things as building materials used, water supply and location.