BASSETERRE, Kitts – THE St. Kitts-Nevis Fire and Rescue Services Department is expressing concern over the “wanton increase in bush fires throughout the country” and is appealing to persons to desist from contributing to these incidences.
Deputy Fire Chief James Warner, in a February 23, 2010 press release, said that the Department took note of the increase and expressed its belief that “most of these are deliberately set while others are as a result of carelessness”.
Speaking with SKNVibes, Warner explained that the situation has escalated to the point where, on any given day, Fire and Rescue Units around the Federation would have to respond to calls to douse up to six bush fires. He said the Department began noticing the “alarming increase” during the “dry period”.
Warner cautioned that these blazes are capable of having devastating effects on life, limb and property. He said the Department’s concerns also stem from, and reminded of the low supply of its principal firefighting agent, water.
“The Fire and Rescue Services kindly solicit your cooperation as we continue to protect and safeguard their lives and property of the citizens and the general economy by preventing and reducing the dangers and effects of fires and explosions.
“We wish to remind everyone that these fires can spread rapidly and cause serious damage to owners and their property especially in this rather dry season. Persons are also reminded of the low water supply currently being experienced due to the lack of rainfall. Water is our principal firefighting agent; therefore, we must endeavour to be more careful and responsible.”
It is advised that persons wishing to “burn” should seek permission from the St. Kitts Nevis Fire and Rescue Department.
“Anyone who wishes to burn should first seek permission from the St. Kitts-Nevis Fire and Rescue Services. This can be done through the submission of an "Authority To Burn" application form which can be obtained from any Fire Station within the Federation of St. Kitts an Nevis.
