Roadtown, Tortola - In light of recent fires affecting the Territory, the Fire and Rescue Service Department is cautioning residents to be proactive in protecting their homes from fires.
“Fire is an essential commodity for preparing food but fire is also destructive and therefore we have to be vigilant,” Acting Deputy Chief Officer, Mr. William W. Penn, told the Department of Information and Public Relations.
One way of being vigilant, according to Mr. Penn, is to identify electrical challenges in the home and to make corrective measures. “It is also very important that each home is equipped with fire extinguishers and that family members know how to operate them,” Mr. Penn added.
This message comes on the heels of another building fire that was reported on May 28 at 8:52 p.m. in the Sea Cows Bay area. Two fire engines and 13 officers responded to the fire, four of whom wore breathing apparatus sets to control and extinguish the blaze. One civilian at the scene also assisted fire officers.
At the time of the fire, an elderly and sight challenged man was occupying the building. He was subsequently treated at Peebles Hospital and was later released. .
Mr. Penn told the Department of Information and Public Relations “from the behaviour pattern of the fire, it appears to be accidental in nature. The building sustained major structural damage and the entire contents were destroyed.”
To date the fire department has recorded 11 building fires this year and continues to urge the community to be proactive to prevent any uncontrolled fire. For additional tips on how to fire proof your home, telephone the Fire and Rescue Service Department at 468-4267.
The Fire and Rescue Service Department is committed to protecting life and property from the effects of fire and all other man-made and natural accidents and disasters.
British Virgin Islands News