Fire Chief Wayne Letang addresses fire incidents recorded so far in 2026

The Dominica Fire and Ambulance Services has responded to a total of 75 fires for the period January 1 – May 10,  2026.

Fire Chief Wayne Letang specified the numbers at a recent press conference as: 40 bush fires, 28 building fires, 3 vehicle fires, 2 boat fires, 1 electrical pole fire, and 1 garbage dump fire.

Chief Letang mentioned that three recent fires in particular, two widely-reported building fires in Roseau and one vehicle fire in Wesley, have generated a lot of public discussion.

“The March 1, 2026, fire in Roseau, which destroyed buildings located at the junction of King George V Street and Old Street, near the Old Market Square, has been deemed undetermined after investigations. Seven buildings sustained substantial damage, while three experienced minor damage. The cause of fire may change or [be] revised if additional information is received later,” Letang noted.

Due to the property damage and displacement of families and businesses, the fire chief acknowledged that the recorded incident has caused considerable concern among the public. However, he noted that through the rapid response and coordinated efforts of the fire and ambulance services and supporting agencies, including the police and public, no lives were lost during the ordeal.

Letang explained that fire prevention protocols are designed to minimize the occurrence and impact of fires, and emphasized that the majority of fires can be prevented through responsible safety protocols and practices.

These preventative measures include: avoiding overloading of electrical outlets; practicing proper use of electricity; ensuring electrical installation is viable by performing the necessary test and upgrades when necessary; turning off appliances when not in use; monitoring open flames and cooking activities at all times; installing smoke alarms where possible; keeping exits accessible; reducing the storage of combustibles; reducing cluttering in business places and at home.

“These fires have brought to the forefront the nation’s response mechanism, individual planning and practices, our safety within our environment, and plans moving forward. The Dominica Fire and Ambulance Service remains committed to protecting life, business, and property, ” assured Letang.