Apart from its frequent drills, and even occasional fire-fighting work, the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service made its presence felt as its enlisted male and female officers paraded through the Upper Valley on Monday, October 6. Their banner read: Working Smoke Alarms – Saving Lives. Test Yours Every Month.
The parade by the Clayton J Lloyd International Airport-based Fire and Rescue Service officers – though the second in a series of activities for Fire Prevention Week – was in fact the highlight of the observance. The first of the activities was a commemorative service at the Ebenezer Methodist Church where the Preacher was the recently-appointed Minister, Rev Marie Velina Petit. The other activities largely involved visits to schools.
“This was actually the first time that we had a parade, Acting Chief Officer, Shondell Hodge, told The Anguillian. “Through this parade and the fire prevention campaign, we are highlighting our theme Working Smoke Alarms – Saving Lives which is self-explanatory. Everybody should be aware of the importance of those particular devices. During the church service we explained to the congregation the different types of smoke alarms, how they work – and a number of our officers participated in portions of the service.”
Mr Evan Gumbs, Minister of Infrastructure, who has responsibility for the fire and rescue service, commended its officers. “First of all, I like to commend the officers,” he stated. “I think it is something new which they should be commended for, and they have the Government’s full support as they carry out their work throughout Anguilla because fire is very dangerous.” He emphasised the importance of smoke alarms, and encouraged all householders and businesses to take advantage of the devices by installing them at their properties as a means of assisting fire prevention on the island.
The Minister was aware that there was a need for additional equipment for the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service. He indicated, however, that there was a shortage of public funds, but it was hoped that in time it would be possible for Government to secure the necessary funding.
Meanwhile, in a press release, the Acting Chief Fire Officer advised that “fires can start in many ways and in many places, but more fires begin in the kitchen than in any other room in the house or workplace.”
Mr Hodge continued: “We think of our home as a safe place, and we sometimes underestimate the dangers we face at home in the event of a fire; but at home, as well as at the workplace, we should always remain vigilant. Even in today’s modern homes and workplaces, that are equipped with smoke alarms and sprinkler systems, we still have to remain mindful and fully alert. Children are at higher risk of being injured by fire because they don’t understand the dangers they face. Senior citizens are also very vulnerable because they may be slower to react.
“By taking some fairly simple precautions, like installing a smoke alarm in every bedroom, and outside every sleeping area of your home, and testing the equipment every month, you can secure your property and save lives.”
Mr Hodge added: “As Acting Fire Chief, an important part of my mandate is to strengthen the Department’s approach to fire safety. Safety is an immeasurable value that should not be neglected, and I am committed to enhancing fire safety awareness throughout my beautiful island home.”
