“Smoke kills – Be fire safe and fire smart”, is the theme for Fire Safety Awareness Week 2020.

Chief Fire Officer Mr. Zebalon McLean said that in spite of the COVID-19 challenges, the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service remains committed to residents in observing Fire Safety practices.

Mr. McLean said, “Businesses, departments and agencies are invited to set up online meetings, where our officers can join them and provide training on Fire Safety and Fire Prevention on WEBEX, ZOOM, or other means. We will also have “Open House” at all fire stations and we ask that persons observe all safety and sanitisation protocols, including wearing their masks.”

The week of activities is as follows:

Sunday, October 11: Church Service at the Sea Cow’s Bay Methodist Church, service begins at 9:00 a.m.

Monday, October 12 to Friday, October 16:

• Open House at All Stations (All Safety Protocols in Place) Fire Safety Lectures by request (Zoom, Webex, etc).                                          
• ZBVI Morning Quiz 6:25 a.m. School aged-children are invited to participate.

Saturday, October 17: Internal Fire Officer activities at all fire stations.

The Chief Fire Officer said the department will also refocus on the dangers of backyard and outdoor burning, which has created tremendous discomfort and life threatening situations for many residents. 

The Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service continues to carry out its mandate of  protecting life, property and the environment, through a proactive approach to continuously enhance the quality of service provided. For more information telephone the department at 468-4268 or 468-4182.