ByAshada Joseph
The Barbados Fire Service is grappling with a troubling spike in grass, residential and vehicular fires, prompting urgent warnings from Chief Fire Officer Errol Maynard.
He revealed that they have had to respond to 231 grass fires for the year up to April 8, an increase from the 150 in the same period last year.
Maynard identified the primary causes as individuals seeking to dispose of rubbish or carelessly discarding cigarette butts.
“People often resort to burning grass to clear their surroundings, especially when the grass is overgrown and poses a habitat for rodents and other vermin,” he explained. “However, this practice poses significant risks not only to the environment but also to the health and safety of people living nearby.”
The chief told the Weekend Nation that many of the grass fires had proven challenging to put out using traditional water methods. Firefighters have resorted to alternative strategies, such as beating out the flames or employing counter-firing techniques, since numerous fires occur in areas that are difficult to access with fire appliances.
There has also been an uptick in house fires, with 27 reported so far this year compared to 17 in the same time frame in 2024.
He said common causes included carelessness, defective electrical and small appliances, and gas leaks. Maynard recounted a tragic incident in Bayland, St Michael, where a house explosion resulted in the deaths of two people last month.
The Chief Fire Officer is urging homeowners to remain vigilant regarding common hazards.
“If you notice that your appliances or home wiring are old or in disrepair, please seek immediate professional assistance. You need to keep your own houses clean. Make sure these things are well serviced and avoid the use of defective equipment. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent fires,” he advised. “Furthermore, if a gas smell is detected, do not activate any electrical appliances. Evacuate the area and contact gas officials.”
Vehicular fires are mounting too – from 13 last year to 22 so far this year in the period mentioned. The specific causes remain under investigation, he added.
Overall, there have been 450 fires from January 1 to April 8, compared to 384 in the same period last year.
Maynard recalled the recent closure of Sharon Primary School in St Thomas due to poor air quality caused by a fire that devastated three businesses in nearby Cane Garden.
He said the issue was a cause for concern as many people suffered with asthma, sinus and other respiratory issues that could be triggered when in the vicinity of a fire.
As the dry season continues, he is cautioning the public to exercise heightened awareness and responsibility regarding fire safety.
