His Excellency the Governor, Mr. John Rankin, CMG, Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Zebalon McLean and Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities are each holding a defibrillator that was donated to the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service by the Scotland Fire and Rescue Service. Photo: Provided

The lifesaving equipment were donated by Scotland Fire and Rescue Service. Charities in the United Kingdom (UK) worked together with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to transport the defibrillators to the Territory.

Governor Rankin said the donation was a great example of collaboration between the UK Fire Services and the Virgin Islands.

“I want to thank all those involved,” the Governor said, adding, “These defibrillators were donated by Scotland Fire and Rescue Service but the arrangement stems from a long-standing relationship between Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service that was formed in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria. I am pleased that the relationship is still thriving today and has helped provide this lifesaving equipment.”

Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities Honourable Kye M. Rymer expressed gratitude and described the exercise as a proud moment. 

Honourable Rymer said, “We are happy to receive this kind donation and understand the importance of these defibrillators at the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service.  The minister shared that it is a timely donation for the department as they are now undertaking cardiac training. “We appreciate the 16 defibrillators and we are happy to maintain the relationship that was forged from the 2017 hurricanes between the fire services. Thank you on behalf of the Government and fire department,” Honourable Rymer said.

Meanwhile, Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Zebalon McLean, also expressed gratitude on behalf of his officers for the donation.

“This donation is the latest of many given to the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service by organisations in the UK. The defibrillators will help to save lives; my officers and I are keen to get them in to service as soon as possible,” Chief McLean stated.

The mission of the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service is to save and protect life, minimise damage to property by preventing and extinguishing fires; carry out rescue and perform other humanitarian services in order to safeguard the community from the effects of civil emergencies.