Nevis Schools Enhanced Fire Safety through CDEMA’s Safe School Programme

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), in collaboration with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Ministry of Education, has bolstered school safety and emergency preparedness in Nevis by donating fire extinguishers to Charlestown Secondary School and Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School. This donation is part of CDEMA’s Model Safe School Programme (MSSP), a comprehensive initiative designed to equip schools with the necessary resources and strategies to manage risks and respond effectively to emergencies. The program is supported by the European Union (EU), the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), and the World Bank.

The MSSP, implemented through Environmental Solutions Limited, focuses on enhancing national safe school policies, conducting hazard assessments, and developing costed action plans for schools across several Caribbean Development Bank Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs). Charlestown Secondary and Elizabeth Pemberton Primary were two of the 33 schools selected for the program, highlighting the importance of these institutions within the broader regional safety framework. The program’s comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to proactive disaster preparedness, aiming to minimize risks and create safer learning environments.

The donation included 36 fire extinguishers, specifically chosen to address various types of fire hazards. These included 10-pound ABC-grade extinguishers for general fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and energized electrical equipment; 10-pound CO2 extinguishers best suited for flammable liquids and electrical fires; and Class K extinguishers specifically designed for kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats. This diverse array of extinguishers ensures the schools are equipped to tackle a range of potential fire emergencies, reflecting a thorough risk assessment process.

The formal handover ceremony, held at the Department of Education on February 21, 2025, symbolized the collaborative effort between CDEMA and the NIA Ministry of Education in prioritizing school safety. Education Officer Tamicia Lestrade emphasized that the provision of the fire extinguishers signifies a commitment to proactive disaster preparedness. Principal Education Officer Londa Brown officially presented the equipment to representatives from both schools, solidifying the commitment to creating a safer learning environment. The ceremony served as a public demonstration of the importance placed on school safety and the tangible steps taken to enhance preparedness.

The MSSP’s focus extends beyond simply providing equipment; it emphasizes the implementation of comprehensive risk management strategies. These strategies involve identifying potential hazards, assessing their likelihood and potential impact, and developing action plans to mitigate those risks. This holistic approach ensures schools are prepared not only to respond to emergencies but also to actively work towards preventing them. The program’s focus on planning and preparation helps create a culture of safety within the school community.

This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing disaster preparedness in Nevisian schools. The provision of fire extinguishers, coupled with the broader framework of the MSSP, demonstrates a commitment to creating safer learning environments for both students and staff. By prioritizing safety and investing in preventative measures, the NIA and CDEMA are contributing to a more resilient and prepared educational system, empowered to effectively manage and mitigate risks. This collaborative approach ensures Nevis’ schools are better equipped to handle potential emergencies, promoting a culture of safety and preparedness within the educational community.