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FEMALE FIRE OFFICERS LAUDED

he Barbados Fire Service has paid tribute to three trailblazing women who were among the organization’s first female officers.

During a recent special ceremony to mark the intake of the service’s first female officers more than 40 years ago, Chief Fire Officer Errol Maynard told attendees that the three women – Hermina Barrow, Ena Gittens, and Ena Gittens – have made a sterling contribution to the service that should never be forgotten.

““We are here to honour Hermina Barrow, who joined the second group of females in the service in 1986. Ms Barrow has set an extraordinary example of dedication and service. She is the only female to serve the department past 60 years of age, retiring last year at 61 as an acting sub-officer. Her longevity and commitment are a testament to her passion and perseverance, and she has undoubtedly paved the way for future generations of female firefighters.

“I would also like to acknowledge the outstanding work of Ena Gittens, a leading fire officer who joined the first group of females in 1979. Now retired, Mrs Gittens dedicates her time to looking after the welfare of other retired officers. She is an active member of the Barbados Association of Retired Fire Officers (BARFO), where her efforts are instrumental in ensuring that our retired colleagues are well-supported and appreciated for their service.”

Maynard added: “… we recognise the significant contributions of Juanita Greaves, who also joined the fire service in 1979. Greaves made a remarkable impact on the fire prevention and code enforcement unit. Her diligent work in this crucial area has helped enhance safety standards and prevent countless fires, safeguarding our communities.”

The service also honored Angela Reveira, who became the first female officer to advance to senior management in 45 years after being promoted to station officer.

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EBC Officers Conducting Verification Of Addresses Exercise

The public is advised that Registering Officers from the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) are in the field conducting a verification exercise to confirm the address of each registrant. This activity is in accordance with the Representation of the People Act Cap 12, Section 12.

EBC Registering Officers will be wearing the department’s branded T-shirts with the official ID prominently displayed as they visit residents in districts across the island.

Householders are encouraged to cooperate with the Registering Officers and secure their pets or animals during the visit. (PR/GIS)

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Police Service Tips For A Safe Bank Holiday Weekend

As persons prepare to attend various events over this extended weekend, Crime Prevention Officer with The Barbados Police Service, Inspector Roger Babb, is encouraging them to “stay in control” as they enjoy themselves.

Inspector Babb reminds members of the public that drinking alcohol impairs their ability to make good decisions, and drinking and driving may result in accidents that can be fatal.

The Crime Prevention Officer shared these useful tips:

Do not feel pressured to drink alcohol; it is okay to say no.
Do not drink and drive, always have a sober designated driver.
If you drink, do so in moderation and never leave your drink unattended.
Do not let anyone bring a drink for you.
To avoid having your drinks spiked, buy your own drinks, and watch the bartender make or open them.
If you think your drink was tampered with, let someone know and seek medical attention.
Be cautious with strangers and do not accept drinks from them.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Never mix alcohol with other drugs.
PR/GIS

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SANDALS BARBADOS RECEIVES (CARPHA) AWARD

Sandals Barbados is the proud recipient of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Healthier Safer Tourism (HST) award.

The presentation was made recently at the Ministry of Health and Wellness office located in the Frank Walcott Building, St. Michael, Barbados.

Accepting the award for the Luxury Included Resort was General Manager Bruno Couesnon.

In his brief remarks Couesnon thanked every one of the team members who contributed to the resort’s recent accolade.

“It’s always nice to win awards; but it takes a team effort to achieve the results for which we are being recognized, today. The health and safety of our guests and team members are important to us and it is great to be selected and celebrated by CARPHA for doing our part and succeeding,” said Couesnon.

Executive Director of CARPHA Dr. Lisa Indar commended the hotel for achieving this internationally recognized award and praised its commitment to health and safety procedures.

“The 2019 Covid pandemic led to global shut down of tourism but it also demonstrated the resilience of the Caribbean by being able to bounce back. Part of that bouncing back was to be able to create a healthier and safer tourism experience and the reason you are here today is by being part of the tourism health programme and implementing proactive measures,” said Dr. Indar.

Some of the benefits of this award include being regionally and internationally recognized for healthier safer tourism endorsed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO); the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The award is the only traveler’s health award where compliance is assessed – it is measurable and verifiable, ensuring the safety of the tourist facility, staff and guests. It also gives a comparative, marketing advantage and gives value to the quality of service.(PR)

CAPTION: Sandals Barbados General Manager General Manager Bruno Couesnon (L) accepting the CARPHA award from Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George