Big Reduction in Fire Calls in Westmoreland

The Jamaica Fire Brigade in Westmoreland is reporting a dramatic drop in fire calls, between January and July, when compared with the similar period for 2007.
Statistics show that for the period in 2008, approximately 200 calls were received by the division, 176 of which were genuine, 10, false alarms and 14 requiring special services. For the corresponding period last year, some 440 calls were received by that division, 389 of which were genuine calls, 34, false alarms and 17, requiring special services.
Fire Brigade personnel in the parish are crediting unusually high rainfall during those months in 2008, and an on-going public education programme, for the dramatic reduction in fire calls.
With a national Community Fire Safety (CFS) initiative officially launched by the Jamaica Fire Brigade in July of this year, Westmoreland fire personnel are promising increased visibility in communities throughout the parish, as they spread their message of fire safety and awareness. Teams of fire-fighters can be seen on a daily basis in the communities throughout the parish, sensitising the public, by issuing pamphlets and having face-to-face discussions on fire safety tips.
Communities in Westmoreland visited, since the start of the initiative, include: Bleauwarie, Glembrook, Seaford Town, St. Leanords, Haddo, West End Negril, Mearnsville, and Auldyr.