Bridgetown.
The Barbados Fire Service is implementing a drug and alcohol policy for its fire officers.
Chief Fire Officer Wilfred Marshall made the announcement at yesterday's opening ceremony of a workshop for Drug Awareness Month, organized in association with the National Council for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drugs (NCPADD), at the Fire Service headquarters, Probyn Street, Bridgetown.
The Fire Chief said that in an effort to update the department's standard operating procedures, he will be meeting with the Fire Service Association to discuss a number of draft proposals, including the draft policy.
"This department, like all other fire departments has the responsibility to provide the highest level of public safety service. All of members share in this responsibility", Marshall said.
The very sensitive position of fire officers involved in fire suppression or other emergencies requires the assurance that they are not under the influence of alcohol or other illegal drugs while on duty", Marshall said.
