The Barbados Fire Service (BFS) has launched a new logo that represents the face of a modernised department and the services it provides.
The new logo of the BFS highlights its four pillars – Excellence Through Service, Mitigation, Response, and Prevention. It also carries the Maltese cross, which is the symbol of protection for firefighters, and represents their bravery and dedication to the profession.
It also carries the fireman’s axe, representing all the tools used by officers daily in responding to an emergency; the firefighter’s helmet, which symbolises their protection and safety; the Broken Trident, which represents nationalism; and the Pride of Barbados, which represents part of the rank structure of the BFS.
Speaking during the launch ceremony on Monday, Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams, said the old logo no longer had a place in the new Fire Service, given its changing dynamics, skills sets of fire officers, and the changing expectations of the public.
Mr. Abrahams added that the new Fire Service was about reinforcing “excellence through service”, and about spreading the message of prevention and mitigation. He highlighted the department’s renewed focus on prevention and mitigation.
“This new logo will serve as a symbol of this proactive and community-oriented approach, reinforcing the message of prevention and mitigation. It is intended to create a visual identity that represents the Fire Service’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our communities, reinforcing the importance of these efforts in the minds of the public,” Mr. Abrahams said.
Chief Fire Officer, Errol Maynard, noted that the department had evolved over the years and its vision expanded to meet a changing environment.
“The Barbados Fire Service of today is far removed from the Fire Service of 10 to 15 years ago. Previously, we were seen as the go-to organisation for the next fire or motor vehicle incident. Today, while we must still respond to fires and motor vehicle incidents, the Barbados Fire Service has become intimately involved in prevention, fire and life safety training, community education, and inspections.
“The service is heavily involved in conducting risk assessments, and we are equipped to respond to calls for prehospital assistance. We are also expanding our remit to be able to effectively respond to land-based marine fire-related incidents,” Mr. Maynard stated.
The Fire Chief also pointed out that the new logo highlighted the department’s dedication to the profession and protection of lives. He added that the Barbados Fire Service is on a renewed path “that will better position us to efficiently protect the lives, property, and environment of those who live, work, visit, or invest in Barbados”.