Lightning strikes stores building at Cayman Islands HMP Northward

At approximately 1:30 a.m. this morning (Wednesday, 27 September 2017) a lightning strike in the vicinity of Her Majesty’s Cayman Islands Prison Service (HMCIPS) Northward resulted in a fire that consumed the Stores Building.

The Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS) responded to the structure fire. Chief Fire Officer David Hails said upon arrival the building was fully engulfed in flames and sustained major damage from the lighting that struck the roof. He added that responding fire officers worked through the night to successfully put out the flames, and around 4 a.m. the fire was successfully extinguished.

Prison Director Neil Lavis said the building not only stored dried goods and prisoner hygiene supplies, but also uniforms and equipment.

Additionally, all computer cables were located inside the burned building so as a result all computer and phone services are currently down at HMP Northward.

“Fortunately the lightning strike took place outside the main prison walls, so I am extremely relieved
that no staff members or prisoners were injured during the incident,” Director Lavis remarked.

He added, “I am really impressed by the response from the staff on duty at the time, as well as those who responded to the emergency calls. The quick response of the Fire Service prevented what could have been a much bigger disaster.”

At this time, the various service providers are working on restoring connectivity to the HMP Northward as soon as possible.

HMCIPS apologises for any inconvenience this may cause the public, and asks to please be patient as they restore access to the facility.

Photo Caption/Side Bar:
Fire Officers Tony Chisholm (left) and Jason Parchment (right) are two of CIFS newest firefighters that recently graduated. This was their first structure fire.