Jamaica Fire Brigade readies islandwide response for El Niño fire risk

The Jamaica Fire Brigade says it is preparing for a possible rise in fires as Jamaica faces higher temperatures and reduced rainfall linked to a developing El Niño pattern.

Superintendent Emilio Ebanks, the brigade’s public education officer, said the agency is placing resources in strategic areas across the country so crews can get to emergencies more quickly if dry conditions lead to more incidents.

Ebanks also sought to ease concern that drought could leave firefighters without enough water to tackle blazes. He said the brigade does not rely only on hydrants connected to the National Water Commission system.

He explained that firefighters know of underground and open water sources that are not widely known to the public. In an emergency, he said, the law allows the brigade to draw from any nearby supply that can help crews bring a fire under control.

The senior firefighter said many fires still begin because of people’s actions. He pointed in particular to farmers who burn material while preparing land for cultivation, warning that flames can move faster and cause greater damage when vegetation is dry and the weather is hot.

Instead of burning cleared material, Ebanks said farmers are being encouraged to turn it into mulch. The brigade has been taking that message to farming groups and communities, including through work with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority and other local organisations.

He said prevention remains central to the brigade’s approach during the expected dry spell. Public education efforts are being stepped up to help residents, farmers and community groups reduce avoidable fire risks.

Ebanks cited Upper St. Andrew as an example of how education can change outcomes. He said that more than a decade ago the brigade worked with farmers there after the area experienced major bush fires each year. According to him, the practices taught then are still being used, leading to fewer fires and less severe outbreaks than in the past.