Providence, East Bank Demerara, January 13, 2026
A fire erupted on the fourth floor of the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino in Providence, East Bank Demerara, prompting a swift response from the Guyana Fire Service. The blaze, traced to room 431, led to the evacuation of 293 guests, including four children. Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire and rescue individuals stranded on the sixth floor using advanced equipment. Fortunately, only one guest was treated for smoke inhalation, with no fatalities reported. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
Georgetown, Guyana – A fire broke out on the fourth floor of the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino in Providence, East Bank Demerara, on January 7, 2026, leading to a rapid response from the Guyana Fire Service (GFS). The incident occurred at approximately 10:54 p.m., with firefighters arriving at the scene promptly to combat the flames.
The fire was traced to room 431 in the six-story hotel, which accommodates 194 rooms and a casino. At the time of the blaze, there were 293 guests, including four children, registered at the hotel. The hotel’s fire alarm and sprinkler systems activated upon detection of smoke, facilitating an orderly evacuation.
Under the command of Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham, a team of 28 firefighters successfully evacuated all guests and extinguished the fire, which concluded around 3:10 a.m. Firefighters utilized a newly acquired hydraulic high-rise platform to rescue individuals who were stranded on the sixth floor of the building. One guest was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for smoke inhalation treatment, but, fortunately, no fatalities or major injuries were reported. The fire caused significant damage to rooms 431, 433, and 435, and an investigation into the cause of the fire has been launched by the GFS.
This incident highlights the critical importance of effective fire safety measures in the hospitality industry. The response of the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino and the swift actions of the GFS likely prevented a more catastrophic event. In recent years, various hotel fires, including the Alpine Motel Apartments fire in Las Vegas in 2019 and the Royal Jomtien Resort Hotel fire in Thailand in 1997, have underscored the necessity for stringent safety protocols to ensure guest safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the fire at the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino?
The Guyana Fire Service has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the fire that broke out in room 431 on January 7, 2026. The exact cause has not been publicly disclosed yet.
Were there any injuries or fatalities in the fire?
One guest was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for treatment of smoke inhalation. However, no fatalities or major injuries were reported during the incident.
How many guests were staying at the hotel during the fire?
At the time of the fire, 293 guests, including four children, were registered at the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino.
What actions did the Guyana Fire Service take during the incident?
The Guyana Fire Service responded promptly, evacuating all guests and extinguishing the fire efficiently. They also utilized a hydraulic high-rise platform to rescue individuals stranded on the hotel’s sixth floor.
Has the cause of the fire been determined?
The Guyana Fire Service has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. As of now, the exact cause has not been publicly disclosed.
What is the current status of the affected rooms?
Rooms 431, 433, and 435 sustained significant damage due to the fire. The hotel management is likely assessing the extent of the damage and planning for repairs.
How does this incident compare to other hotel fires in recent years?
Similar incidents, such as the Alpine Motel Apartments fire in Las Vegas in 2019 and the Royal Jomtien Resort Hotel fire in Thailand in 1997, have highlighted the critical need for comprehensive fire safety measures and regular inspections in hospitality venues.
What measures are being taken to prevent future hotel fires?
Following such incidents, there is an increased emphasis on implementing stringent fire safety protocols, conducting regular inspections, and ensuring that all safety systems are functional to protect guests and staff in hospitality establishments.
Is the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino open for business?
While the affected rooms are being assessed and repaired, the hotel management is likely working to ensure that the remaining facilities are operational. For the most current information, it is advisable to contact the hotel directly.
How can guests ensure their safety during hotel stays?
Guests should familiarize themselves with the hotel’s emergency evacuation procedures, locate exits upon arrival, and ensure that smoke alarms and other safety devices are functioning. It’s also advisable to stay informed about the hotel’s safety measures and report any concerns to management.
What should guests do if they encounter a fire during their stay?
If a fire occurs, guests should immediately activate the nearest fire alarm, evacuate the building using the nearest exit, and avoid using elevators. Once outside, they should call emergency services and inform them of the situation.
Are there any updates on the investigation into the fire’s cause?
The Guyana Fire Service is conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire. As of now, no further updates have been provided. For the latest information, it is recommended to follow official communications from the Guyana Fire Service.
What can be done to improve fire safety in hotels?
Hotels can improve fire safety by conducting regular fire drills, ensuring that all safety equipment is up to date and functional, training staff in emergency response procedures, and adhering to local fire safety regulations and standards.
How can guests report fire safety concerns in hotels?
Guests should report any fire safety concerns to hotel management immediately. If the issue is not addressed satisfactorily, they can contact local fire authorities or regulatory bodies responsible for enforcing fire safety standards in hospitality establishments.
What are the legal consequences for hotels failing to comply with fire safety regulations?
Hotels that fail to comply with fire safety regulations may face legal actions, including fines, closure orders, or other penalties. In severe cases, hotel executives may be charged with negligence or other offenses, as seen in previous incidents like the Royal Jomtien Resort Hotel fire in Thailand in 1997.
How can guests stay informed about hotel safety during their stay?
Guests can stay informed by reading the hotel’s safety information provided upon check-in, attending any safety briefings offered, and asking staff about emergency procedures and exits. It’s also advisable to keep emergency contact numbers readily available.
What role do hotel staff play in ensuring guest safety during a fire?
Hotel staff are responsible for implementing emergency procedures, guiding guests to safety, ensuring that fire safety equipment is functional, and providing assistance during evacuations. Their training and preparedness are crucial in managing fire emergencies effectively.
Can hotel guests be held liable for causing a fire?
Guests can be held liable if they are found to have caused a fire through negligence or intentional actions. However, liability depends on the circumstances and local laws. It’s important for guests to adhere to hotel policies and exercise caution to prevent accidents.
What should guests do if they notice a fire hazard in a hotel?
Guests should report any fire hazards, such as blocked exits, faulty smoke alarms, or exposed wiring, to hotel management immediately. Prompt reporting can help prevent potential incidents and ensure the safety of all occupants.
How do hotel fire safety standards vary by country?
Hotel fire safety standards can vary significantly by country, depending on local regulations and enforcement. It’s important for guests to be aware of the safety standards in the country they are visiting and for hotels to comply with local fire safety laws.
What are the most common causes of hotel fires?
Common causes of hotel fires include electrical malfunctions, cooking accidents, heating equipment failures, and arson. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety protocols can help mitigate these risks.
How can guests prepare for a fire emergency in a hotel?
Guests can prepare by locating emergency exits upon arrival, keeping their room key accessible, and familiarizing themselves with the hotel’s evacuation plan. Staying calm and following staff instructions during an emergency is essential for safety.
What should guests do if they are unable to evacuate during a hotel fire?
If guests are unable to evacuate, they should stay in a room with a window, signal for help, and use a cloth to cover their nose and mouth to reduce smoke inhalation. They should avoid using elevators and stay low to the ground to avoid smoke inhalation.
Are there any resources available to help guests understand hotel fire safety?
Yes, many hotels provide fire safety information upon check-in, and guests can also refer to local fire safety organizations or government websites for guidelines on hotel fire safety practices.
What should guests do if they encounter a fire in a hotel lobby or common area?
Guests should immediately alert hotel staff, use the nearest exit to evacuate, and avoid using elevators. They should follow any instructions provided by staff or emergency personnel and stay calm during the evacuation process.
How can guests ensure their hotel room is safe from fire hazards?
Guests can ensure their room is safe by checking that smoke alarms are functional, not blocking exits, and reporting any hazards to hotel management. They should also avoid using electrical appliances improperly and be cautious with open flames.
What are the responsibilities of hotel management in fire safety?
Hotel management is responsible for ensuring that the property complies with fire safety regulations, conducting regular fire drills, maintaining functional fire safety equipment, training staff in emergency response, and providing guests with safety information.
How can guests stay updated on the status of a hotel fire investigation?
Guests can stay updated by following official communications from the Guyana Fire Service and your research on the internet.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Providence, East Bank Demerara |
| Date of Incident | January 7, 2026 |
| Involved Parties | Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino, Guyana Fire Service |
| Number of Guests | 293 guests registered, including four children |
| Response Time | Firefighters arrived at 10:54 p.m. |
| Injuries | One guest admitted for smoke inhalation; no fatalities reported |
| Damage | Rooms 431, 433, and 435 significantly damaged |
| Investigation | Underway by the Guyana Fire Service |
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