Promoting public safety and awareness

SINCE THE inception of the Jamaica Fire Brigade, almost a century and a half ago, it has evolved into a modern, nationally decentralised institution which has demonstrated its commitment to minimising the loss of lives and injury to the Jamaican people. The brigade has constantly been at the forefront of the thrust for public safety and has not only acted as first responders, but a valued partner of the people in instances of fires, natural disasters and accidents.

The brigade comprises some of Jamaica’s bravest men and women who have dedicated the greater part of their lives and put their personal safety in service of their country and its people. The job is never easy and their service often goes unrecognised and unrewarded. It is to their credit that the commitment and courage of these unsung heroes and heroines have never wavered.

Over the years, the strengthening of the partnership between the Jamaica Fire Brigade and the community has been a major contributing factor to the successes we record in promoting public safety and awareness. As you celebrate Life Safety and Awareness Week, we must now seek to further strengthen this cooporation to remove the threats posed by manmade and natural hazards and make our society safer.

This year’s theme, ‘Mek Wi Fix It…….Community First!’, encapsulates this commitment to the national safety-awareness, agenda, and the public must be mindful that the members of the brigade put their lives on the line day after day to rescue and protect us.

Let me invite all Jamaica to share in the celebration of this week and to commit ourselves to providing the kind of community support that the Jamaica Fire Brigade will need to continue its drive to promote the safety of all Jamaican citizens and properties. PETER PHILLIPS Leader of the Opposition