SLFS Reports Surge In Fires For 2024

Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) data shows that firefighters responded to 683 fires up to October this year, more than for all of 2023. According to the data, in 2023, the SLFS recorded 582 fire responses, representing 101 less than this year so far. Bush fires dominated fire responses this year and in 2023. The breakdown is as follows: Fires for 2024- 683 ( to October 1) – Bush -326 – Rubbish-150 – Residential-46 – Vehicle-26 – Electrical-13 Fires for 2023 -582 • Bush -207 • Rubbish -133 • Residential-92 • Vehicle-37 • Electrical-26 The fire service said the figures represent the primary fire responses and do not include others, such as coal pot fires. Earlier this year, the station officer of fire prevention, Owen Cazaubon, told St. Lucia Times bush fire responses stretch the SLFS resources as emergency personnel respond to other critical developments. Cazaubon said the situation had also adversely affected the timely response to some life-threatening emergencies. As a result, the fire service reiterated its fire safety appeal. “We advise the public to refrain from setting fires as a means of garbage disposal, land clearing, or otherwise, particularly in residential areas,” Cazaubon said. PHOTO: File image of...