The Ministry of Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Arbeid (VWA, Public Health, Welfare and Labour) warns the public about the health risks resulting from a spreading forest fire in the district of Commewijne. The fire is burning near Belwaarde, at Plantage De Vries, and is causing significant smoke nuisance in several residential areas. The smoke has now reached Nieuw-Amsterdam and, according to the ministry, may also drift towards Paramaribo.
The fire is affecting, among other areas, the vicinity of Suzannedaal and Ordonnanceweg, near the Militair Project. Due to the continuing smoke development, there is a risk that residents in the affected areas may inhale harmful smoke particles. The ministry therefore calls on the public to take precautionary measures and avoid exposure to the smoke as much as possible.
Residents urged to remain indoors
People with asthma and other respiratory conditions in particular face an increased risk of health problems. The ministry advises this group to remain indoors as much as possible and avoid physical exertion outdoors.
Residents in areas experiencing smoke nuisance are advised to keep windows and doors closed. To prevent smoke from entering homes, openings beneath doors can be sealed with damp cloths.
Anyone who must go outside despite the smoke development is advised to wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 face mask. Such masks can reduce exposure to harmful fine smoke particles.
Smoke can cause various health complaints
According to the ministry, exposure to the smoke can lead to irritation of the eyes and nose, coughing, sneezing, itching and shortness of breath. People with existing respiratory problems in particular should be alert to a possible worsening of their complaints.
People who develop health complaints are strongly advised to contact their general practitioner. The ministry stresses that those affected should not wait until the complaints become more serious.
Government closely monitoring situation
The Ministry of Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Arbeid is in contact with the Nationaal Coördinatie Centrum voor Rampenbeheersing (NCCR, National Coordination Centre for Disaster Management) and is closely monitoring developments surrounding the forest fire.
The authorities stress that it is important for residents to follow the health advice in order to limit the risks of smoke inhalation as much as possible.
Residents of Commewijne and surrounding areas, including Paramaribo, in particular are urged to remain alert to any changes in the smoke development.
