NEGRIL, Jamaica — In a region where fire service legislation often lags behind the realities of modern emergency response, Jamaica is setting the pace—reforming its laws, equipping its firefighters with clearer authority, and pushing for sustainable methods.
At the 2025 Caribbean Association of Fire Chiefs (CAFC) Conference, held May 11–17, Jamaican leadership was repeatedly acknowledged for advancing legislative support and operational capability for its fire service.
“Many territories are still operating under outdated frameworks that don’t address the complexity of current-day emergencies,” said Kevin Haughton, deputy commissioner of the Jamaica Fire Brigade and vice-president of CAFC. “Jamaica, on the other hand, has begun to close those gaps.”
According to Haughton, legislative reforms spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government are helping to strengthen legal backing for firefighters, particularly in unconventional scenarios like forced-entry rescues and technical operations.
“These updates aren’t just about authority—they’re about safety, accountability, and making sure our officers have the legal framework to act decisively in high-risk moments,” Haughton explained.
CAFC President Kenrick Hackett praised Jamaica’s direction, stating that the country’s model could serve as a blueprint for others. “The leadership demonstrated by Jamaica during this conference shows how regional transformation can begin with bold national steps.”
Beyond legislation, the conference also spotlighted sustainability in firefighting—a topic increasingly relevant amid climate challenges. Haughton revealed that Jamaica is actively transitioning toward greener firefighting solutions.
“This includes phasing in environmentally safe foam agents and reviewing the ecological impact of our gear and materials,” he said. “We’re encouraging our regional peers to evaluate and adopt similar eco-conscious measures.”
With 17 Caribbean countries represented, the CAFC 2025 conference emphasized collaboration, offering strategic workshops and operational training aimed at strengthening regional emergency response.
For Jamaica, the event served as a platform not only to learn but to lead—demonstrating how proactive governance and a commitment to progress can drive real change across Caribbean fire services.
