Fire Service Marks International Firefighters Day

BASSETERRE — The St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Service capped a week of activities Thursday with an open day at Independence Square, marking International Firefighters Day with community outreach, public engagement, and a showcase of the service’s capabilities.

Acting Fire Chief, Mr. Rommel Williams said the week began with a church service and included a historic first-ever fire chief’s march through the streets of Basseterre — from Kay Street down Church Street, up Fort Street, across West Independence Square Street and back to the fire station.

Fire officers also conducted a community drive, distributing flyers and sharing fire prevention tips with residents.

“We gave persons information about what it is to be fire safe, to exercise good fire prevention practices at home,” Williams said.

A role reversal exercise on Wednesday gave members of the public, including representatives from local establishments, an opportunity to experience the responsibilities of the fire service firsthand, including riding out on fire units.

The open day also provided an opportunity to showcase equipment and encourage young people to consider careers in the fire service. The week of activities concluded with a drill display on Bay Road on Friday.