A notable decrease in the number of fire-related incidents in 2023 was reported in Antigua and Barbuda, compared to 2024.

During a press conference organized by the police administration to provide an overview of the various departments, Fire Chief Vivian Parker shared detailed statistics regarding the department’s fire calls.

In 2023, the Fire Department responded to 409 fire calls. Of these, 375 were classified as ‘Serious Fires,’ while the remaining 33 fell under the category labeled ‘Other Fires.’

When we turn our attention to 2024, we see a marked decline in the overall total of fire-calls, which reached just 336.

Within this total, 264 incidents were categorized as ‘Serious Fires’, while the category of ‘Other Fires’ accounted for an additional 72 calls. This shift in data indicates a substantial overall decrease of 18 percent in total fire incidents, alongside a significant 30 percent reduction in the number of serious fires reported.

Interestingly, in the breakdown of fire types, the year 2024 saw an unexpected surge in the ‘Other Fires’ category, which experienced a remarkable increase of 118 percent compared to 2023.

Focusing specifically on house fires, there was a drop from 88 incidents in 2023 to 65 in 2024—a reduction reflecting a decrease of 26 percent. In contrast, vehicle fires exhibited a slight rise, increasing marginally from 37 in 2023 to 38 in 2024.

Rubbish fires, another significant cause for concern, also saw a decline of 26 percent, decreasing from 74 incidents in 2023 to just 55 in the following year.

Parker also took the opportunity to express her gratitude towards the government for the resources made available to the department.

She emphasized that these resources are vital for enabling the Fire Department to effectively execute their responsibilities.

Chief Parker also mentioned the exciting imminent arrival of five new fire trucks, which are expected to further enhance the department’s operational capabilities in the future.