Jamaica Fire Brigade Recommends Measures to Prevent Market Fires
A simulated image of a fire in a market.
The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) is taking steps to prevent fire outbreaks in markets. This follows three fires that occurred at the Old Shoe Market in Montego Bay over the past year, which were attributed to unregulated electricity use, cramped shop layouts, and the use of non-fire-rated materials.
According to District Officer and Fire Investigator for the JFB’s Western Region, Oniel Clarke, the investigation into the Old Shoe Market fires revealed "startling data" suggesting unregulated usage of electricity and electrical appliances, as well as issues with building construction and schematic design.
Clarke emphasized the need to put in place preventative measures to ensure the proper regulation and distribution of electricity to shops, and to implement and install smoke detectors in shops to provide audible alarm when activated by smoke particles in the air.
Causes of Market Fires
The compact nature of markets, combined with the type and quality of material used in building these structures, can result in a rapid spread of flames in the event of a fire outbreak.
Clarke stressed that building construction considerations must be given to the type of materials used, noting that approved fire-related materials should be used to provide greater protection to occupants and contents.
Measures to Prevent Market Fires
To prevent future fire incidents and safeguard lives and property, the JFB recommends the following measures:
Fire Safety Inspections and Enforcement
JFB personnel are authorized to inspect specified buildings, including markets, to assess their safety against fire hazards. These inspections aim to identify and eliminate fire risks, ensure the adequacy and maintenance of fire protection equipment, and enforce compliance with fire safety standards and codes.
Public Education and Awareness
The JFB’s Fire Prevention Division conducts ongoing public education initiatives to raise awareness about fire safety. These programs include home safety surveys, school tours, evacuation drills, and fire safety presentations, all designed to engage the public in active fire protection efforts.
Legislative Framework and Policy Development
The JFB assists in developing fire prevention regulations, inspection policies, and amendments to the Fire Brigade Act. This includes creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) for new and existing programs, ensuring that fire prevention measures are up-to-date and effective.
Fire Prevention Requirement Checklist
The Local Authorities of Jamaica provide a Fire Prevention Requirement Checklist, which outlines essential fire safety measures for businesses, including markets. This checklist serves as a guide to help establishments comply with fire safety regulations and reduce the risk of fire incidents.
Conclusion
By implementing these measures, the JFB aims to prevent future fire incidents and safeguard lives and property in markets across Jamaica.
FAQs
Q: What are the common causes of fires in markets?
A: Unregulated electricity use, cramped shop layouts, and the use of non-fire-rated materials are among the common causes of fires in markets.
Q: How can fires in markets be prevented?
A: By implementing fire safety inspections and enforcement, public education and awareness, legislative framework and policy development, and fire prevention requirement checklists, fires in markets can be prevented.
Q: What are the consequences of failing to prevent fires in markets?
A: Failure to prevent fires in markets can result in loss of life, property damage, and economic loss.
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