The new firefighters listen attentively during their passing out ceremony held at the Lions Community Centre on 25 April.

By: Teisha-Ann Pinnock

Following 24 weeks of intensive training, 21 Caymanians will be added to the ranks of the Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS). The new recruits were installed at a passing out ceremony on Thursday, 25 April 2024 in the presence of Deputy Governor, Honourable Franz Manderson, Minister for Home Affairs, Honourable Sabrina Turner, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mr Michael Ebanks, Chief Fire Officer Mr Randy Rankin and other senior government officials.

The increase of fire officers is a long-awaited and necessary achievement by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the CIFS. The budget allocation for the present cohort was granted by Cabinet to allow the CIFS to efficiently meet rising demands for fire and rescue services in both Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. The additional firefighters will support the maintenance of safe systems of work and provide tactical commanders with greater capacity to effectively manage diverse emergencies.

Valedictorian, Ajani Anderson delivers the Recruits’ Address during the Cayman Islands Fire Service recruits passing out ceremony held at the Lions Community Centre on 25 April. Firefighter Anderson also copped the coveted Kirkland Nixon Award.

The training process for the recruits began in October 2023 and covered comprehensive international fire and rescue procedures, involving various levels of assessments to determine inter alia, the recruits’ problem-solving skills, physical fitness and endurance. Through this training, the new firefighters have been equipped with the necessary competencies that will enhance the capacity of the CIFS to provide industry fire and rescue services throughout the Cayman Islands. 

Speaking on the recruitment process, Minister for Home Affairs, Honourable Sabrina Turner stated that the new recruits will be a shining example of the selflessness and dedication to the safety of others, that is necessary to make the country better. “You will play a crucial role in our community – saving lives, promoting awareness and inspiring future generations of firefighters. Each time you wear your uniform and answer the call of duty, remember the trust and faith the Cayman Islands population places in you”, Minister Turner said. 

Deputy Governor, Honourable Franz Manderson presents the award for most improved firefighter to Darrick Martin during the Cayman Islands Fire Service recruits passing out ceremony held at Lions Community Centre on 25 April

Chief Fire Officer Mr. D. Randy Rankin expressed gratitude for the dedicated groups of individuals who have embarked on the brave path of protecting the community. “I am pleased to welcome the new firefighters to the Cayman Islands Fire Service. Throughout the training process they demonstrated resilience and dedication to the journey ahead. I wish to assure the public that we will conduct ongoing training and assessments to ensure our firefighters are trained in industry fire and rescue standards and practices to guarantee the safety of our community”, Mr Rankin said.