Public Urged to Take Precautions as Bush Fires Spike Amid Rising Temperatures

Reporter: Amoy Harriott

The Jamaica Fire Brigade is raising an alarm over a reported increase in bush fires across several parishes in recent weeks.

 

The brigade is appealing to the public to take precautions to protect themselves during the intense heat while also avoiding activities that could spark fires.

 

The days are getting hotter and hotter, and by all indications, it's only getting hotter.

 

The average global temperature has increased by a little more than 1° C when compared to previous decades. And as the temperatures rise, so too does the risk of fires.

 

Last week alone, firefighters responded to two separate blazes, one of which left several persons homeless in St James and the other gutted several businesses in Trelawny. But according to Acting Assistant Commissioner for Area 2 of the Jamaica Fire Brigade Roland Walters, house fires aren't even the main problem.

 

“In area 2, which um comprises Trelawny, St Anne, St Mary, and Portland, there is a uptick in bush fires. Every day each division can have upwards to 10 bush fires running. So, there is an uptick in bush fires at this.”

 

With the heat forcing more people to stay indoors and rely on fans and other cooling devices, acting assistant commissioner Walters is urging Jamaicans to ensure their electrical systems can handle the extra demand.

 

“You will be in a room and you have two fans running at the same time. Never overload your circuit because you're hot. Ensure that you check your extension chords for heating. If the chords are shaved, do not use them. Do not use gasoline or kerosene oil to light a fire or to reignite the fire to increase the fire, especially gasoline. Gasoline is very violent when it comes in contact with any heat source. So, you never do that.”

 

 Parents are also being cautioned; “Children have an inquiring in mind and they enjoy playing with matches. Therefore, you need to supervise them and keep all match and lighters out of their reach.”

 

And this appeal to farmers; “Always have safe practices. Do not practice slash and burn. It is very dry now. It's very windy. And the moment you try to engage in this practice, then the fire will spread and then we will have a disaster.”