Increase in the Number of Working Fire Hydrants

The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) is reporting an increase in the number of functional fire hydrants across the country.

Commissioner of the JFB, Stewart Beckford, told JIS News that this is directly linked to ongoing infrastructure developments.

“One of the requirements of any developer, whether it’s a housing development or a commercial development, is to instal hydrants. The number that is required will depend on the size of that development,” Mr. Beckford said.

The Commissioner pointed out that while there is an increase in the overall number of hydrants, there has also been a marked improvement in the functionality of existing ones.

He said the JFB has embarked on an initiative to map all hydrants nationwide to further enhance response times and efficiency.

“Hydrants, they are the lifeblood of firefighting operations. If we do not have them, it is going to hamper how we operate, and it can make a difference between us saving a building from total destruction and us losing that building,” Commissioner Beckford said.

Meanwhile, the JFB will be working closely with the National Water Commission to ensure the availability of water in the hydrants, especially during water lock-offs.

Mr. Beckford also informed that the JFB is seeking to procure additional water tenders, commonly referred to as water tankers, underscoring the JFB’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across Jamaica.