The Barbados Fire Service (BFS) has disclosed that it is now using WhatsApp as a tool for reporting emergencies, to enhance the search and rescue component of its operations. The WhatsApp number is 262-4120.
Speaking at the Chief Fire Officer’s Parade and Awards Ceremony, at the Arch Hall Fire Station, in St. Thomas, last Friday, Chief Fire Officer, Errol Maynard, said: “This communication medium will enable individuals with hearing impairment to contact us more easily, ensuring that everyone has access to emergency service when needed.”
Mr Maynard added: “We will also be training our dispatchers to communicate via sign language. And I’m sure most of you would have heard that just recently, we had a couple of hikers lost, and they used WhatsApp to communicate with the Fire Service, in order to let us know, that they were in trouble.
“So, we are going to use whatever medium it takes so that whenever some person is in trouble, we can use technology for them to communicate with us.”
New equipment has also been procured by the BFS, which, according to the Chief Fire Officer, is designed to “address the growing threat of electric vehicles”. He continued: “And I’m proud to share that our staff are now better trained to manage these challenges.”
Mr. Maynard further stated that BFS aims to better prepare community members to protect themselves, while gaining a deeper understanding of their specific needs.
He said this will be achieved through multiple channels, including town hall sessions, interactive workshops, and online campaigns. A feedback mechanism will also be implemented, allowing customers to share their concerns and suggestions.