Lisia Lynch, Gleaner Writer
Assistant Superintendent of the Jamaica Fire Brigade, Troy Fraser, leads the graduates at Tower Isle, St. Mary. There were 207 recruits who graduated after a 13-week period of training. The guest speaker at the event was Minister Portia Simpson Miller. - PHOTO BY BRIAN CARLESS
THE JAMAICA Fire Brigade received a much-needed boost when a fresh batch of firefighters entered its ranks last week.
The firefighters, 207 of them, participated in a graduation ceremony at the Madge Saunders Conference Centre in St. Mary.
According to training officer, Assistant Superintendent Troy Fraser, these recruits were trained in 18 subject areas.
"The importance of self and group discipline, and the relevance of team corporation were inculcated through the continued portrayal of high levels of adherence of standards. During the training period, recruits were exposed to knowledge of the brigade's regulations and culture, tools, equipment, appliances and their usages," Mr. Fraser explained.
The firefighters all underwent basic training in fire suppression techniques during which their minds and bodies were conditioned for the challenging career of firefighting.
At the graduation ceremony, the new firemen and women were resplendently adorned in their militant attire, cutting a dashing display for the huge crowd of various supporters and well-wishers.
Minister of Local Government, Portia Simpson Miller, who was the inspecting officer and the guest speaker, implored the new fire-fighters to "work diligently, always maintaining a cool head and not at any time to allow themselves to be confused."
She mentioned the impending arrival of new fire trucks to assist the brigade, and plans for the new training headquarters at Twicken-ham Park in Spanish Town. According to the minister, two senior officers were also sent to Florida to view facilities there and to gain experience in order to make recommendations to improve facilities here in Jamaica.
During the ceremony, awards were given to recruits who were outstanding during the period of intense training. Michael Hutchinson won a double award for the best recruit and instructor while Courtney Carter won the award for best academics. Ryan Refus earned the best first aider prize while Napthalia Hall emerged as the top female. Karim Morrison won the best practical skills award, while the challengers male and female awards were given to Ricardo Brown and Kimberly Harrison respectively.
NEW STATION FOR PORT MARIA
Senior deputy superintendent Raymond Spencer told The Gleaner that this is the second time that such a big group had graduated and that "these guys are well prepared for real fire fighting". He revealed that there are also future plans for the construction of a new fire station in Port Maria, a facility which is expected to replace the present dilapidated structure.
This fresh batch will be dispersed strategically into the 13 divisions across the country as they seek to follow the brigade motto of saving lives and protecting property.
