There have been fewer residential, vehicle and commercial fires so far this year, but the island’s top fire official warned on Thursday that seasonal carelessness during Christmas could erase those safety gains in a flash.
Acting Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick issued the caution as the Barbados Fire Service reported a decline in major fire incidents for the year to date, even as residents enter what is traditionally one of the most high-risk periods for fires and emergencies.
Firefighters responded to 1 557 emergencies during the first 11 months of 2025, including 64 residential fires, 58 motor vehicle fires and 11 commercial building fires.
Compared with the same period last year, that represents a nine per cent reduction in residential fires, a nine per cent decline in vehicle fires, and a four per cent drop in commercial building fires.
Patrick credited the improvement to greater public awareness and safer decision-making, but stressed that those gains could be quickly undone if residents become complacent during the festive season.
“The choices we make during this yuletide season should add value to our experiences and not vanity,” he said in his Christmas message, cautioning that poor decisions could “instantly transform the most wonderful time of the year into a time of mayhem and mourning”.
With increased cooking, decorating, travel and social activity typical at Christmas, Patrick urged Barbadians to remain vigilant, particularly in homes where open flames, electrical decorations and unsupervised children may be present.
Among the safety reminders issued by the Fire Service were warnings against overloading electrical circuits and extension cords, leaving stoves unattended while cooking or baking, and placing electrical plugs near water sources or beneath rugs.
Patrick also advised residents to water live Christmas trees regularly and keep them away from heat sources, use certified decorative lights, and avoid leaving decorations plugged in overnight.
On the roads, the Fire Service renewed its call for responsible driving, reminding motorists to avoid speeding and distractions and to designate a sober driver when attending social gatherings.
“Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made,” Patrick said, quoting an anonymous source as he urged residents to be deliberate about safety during the holiday period.
He also appealed to families and communities to pay special attention to vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, persons with disabilities and those living alone, ensuring their safety and comfort during the season.
The Fire Service reiterated that emergencies should be reported immediately by calling 311, noting that early reporting remains critical to preventing small incidents from escalating into major fires or life-threatening situations.
Patrick said the Barbados Fire Service remains committed to fire and life-safety education and risk reduction, and expressed hope that the downward trend in fire incidents would continue into the new year.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to serve with excellence and we look forward to continuing this journey of fire and life safety and risk reduction with you in 2026,” he said.
The acting fire chief further encouraged residents and visitors alike to make safety a priority throughout the holidays, warning that while Christmas is a time for celebration, it is also a period when a single lapse in judgment can carry lasting consequences.
(SM)
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