Friday, November 6 – An early morning fire at Road Reef Marina left one vehicle completely destroyed and a second with moderate damage estimated at $12,000.
According to a statement issued by Acting Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Mr. William W. Penn, no one was injured during the fire which was reported at 8:19 a.m. Two fire engines, a water tender and a utility vehicle, operated by five fire officers from the Road Town Fire Station were deployed in response to the call.
Upon arrival at the scene, the officers observed that two vehicles, a four-door red Lincoln LS car was alight and a green two-door Honda Civic had also caught fire due to radiation from the Lincoln.
The owner of the Lincoln told the fire department that he turned on the ignition and saw smoke in the back seat, and while trying to locate a fire extinguisher later noticed fire under the car.
According to Mr. Penn, the incident is still under investigation; however, he noted that the fuel pump is an area of concern. Members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force were also on the scene and will assist with further investigations.
In light of this incident and the fact that 24 vehicle fires have been reported so far this year, the Fire and Rescue Department is reiterating the importance of fire safety.
“Motorists should avoid travelling with flammable items in their vehicles such as gasoline, kerosene or LPG gas. It is recommended that a two and a half pound fire extinguisher is kept in the vehicle and that occupants know where it is and how to operate it at all times,” Station Officer Mr. Melvin Jeffers told the Department of Information and Public Relations.
“It is also important to note that vehicles be taken to trained mechanics when electrical problems occur rather than drivers attempting to fix the problems themselves,” Mr. Jeffers cautioned.
The Fire and Rescue Services 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