Letters

Sirens blaring for fire service upgrade

THE EDITOR, Madam:

We have seen fire destroy many buildings in Jamaica. In fact the latest incident was a commercial building in Montego Bay. The owners of the burnt building were arguing about the commitment of the firefighters in attempting to extinguish the fire.

We have seen enough of these similar situations and I think it's time to put an end to these problems. The government or whosoever governs and controls the fire stations should ensure that all fire stations Islandwide are fully equipped and technologically sophisticated to deal with all kinds of fire and any other similar situations. It's total madness to have a fire station up and working but only one truck in the station working or when a fire incident is reported and the fire truck reaches its destination, the truck has to withdraw water from a fire hydrant which is total madness. How can you attempt to extinguish fire without any water? It seems as if the firefighters are reluctant in doing their jobs.

Why aren't the firefighters putting out their utmost effort in dealing with such atrocious elements as fire?

The other major problems the fire fighters have is the reaction time; they take too long to react to a call which always results in more properties being lost even lives. Working with such a destructive and dangerous element as fire really takes a lot out of a person and we must really congratulate these firefighters for their courageous attempts and their heroic stunts to save lives and people's property. I am not crucifying the firefighters but simply highlighting some recurring problems which need to be highlighted. Somebody in authority should recognize them and make a difference. With so much arson happening I think the fire fighters should be more alert and responsible in fighting fires.

I am, etc.,

ERIC GRIFFITHS

Topmaneric2004@yahoo.com