14 health staff at East Sepik PHA certified as fire wardens

Safety at the East Sepik Provincial Hospital [ESPHA] has taken a significant leap forward.

This is after fourteen staff members from the East Sepik Provincial Health Authority [PHA] were certified as fire wardens, following a comprehensive fire safety and evacuation training facilitated by the Papua New Guinea Fire Service recently.

Led by Wewak Fire Commander Ketom Resom, the training equipped participants representing various departments across East Sepik PHA with hands-on skills in fire extinguisher use, emergency response strategies, and evacuation procedures.

These skills are critical to ensuring safer outcomes during potential emergencies.

Director of Curative Services, Dr Plinduo commended the initiative on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Mathew Kaluvia and the entire PHA.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the PNG Fire Department. Their work is often undervalued, but it's absolutely essential. They’ve not only strengthened our preparedness but also empowered our team with knowledge and life-saving skills.”

“Panic often overrides action during fire emergencies, but proper training can make all the difference,” he said.

Dr Plinduo congratulated the 14 newly certified fire wardens and encouraged them to apply their skills, share their knowledge, and promote a culture of safety throughout the hospital and the broader community.

This initiative marks an active step towards strengthening the PHA in the face of fire-related risks and highlights the importance of safeguarding lives.