Be more careful and vigilant!
That is the plea of Chief Fire Officer, Errol Maynard, to residents across Barbados, after what he has described as “a tough and hectic year” for the Barbados Fire Service (BFS).
Mr. Maynard outlined that fire officers responded to approximately 964 fire incidents so far this year, of which, 37 were for private residences, 514 grass fires, and 237 rubbish fires.
This, he said, compared with 665 calls in 2022, of which 29 were for private dwellings, 323 grass fires and 188 rubbish fires.
He made these comments during a brief ceremony at the BFS headquarters, on Monday, for five fire officers who were promoted to the rank of Station Officer.
“We are therefore encouraging the public to work with us and help the Barbados Fire Service and the other emergency responders to protect you, your family and your property,” Mr. Maynard pleaded.
He added that while present conditions were hot and unusually dry, persons needed to be “a little more careful and vigilant” to avoid the possibility of fires, which could have a significant impact on lives and livelihoods.
The Fire Chief appealed to persons to keep their surroundings clean. He called on Government entities responsible for abandoned and unoccupied buildings to secure them, and avoid undesirables entering and occupying the premises.