First wireless fire alarm introduced to Jamaica

Paul Allen Sunday Finance reporter allenp@jamaicaobserver.com

Sunday, September 18, 2011

The country's public and private enterprises are set to benefit from the launch of a new company, Safety Solutions and Fire Prevention Systems Limited (SSFPS), which will introduce new measures of fire prevention.

"Between April 2010 and march 2011, approximately 13,000 calls to quell fires on both private and commercial properties have been received. Over this period, some $4.6 billion in losses have been estimated." said Michael Boyd, SSFPS director.

These statistics, coupled with the loss of lives and negative impact on businesses and employees, were the factors which influenced the formation of the new company as businesses are often hard-pressed to invest further in systems protection after making the initial investment.

"After noting this expensive trend, [we] did some extensive research in this area and have partnered with providers of wireless fire detection systems ... and distributors of, 3m Novex 1230 fire-protection fluid" Boyd said.

"SSFPS will be working closely with our local fire brigade to implement a system that will allow fire stations in major towns to connect directly to businesses and we are working towards also connecting them to our systems" he said.

Also speaking at the launch, Milton Samuda, president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), lauded the initiative, citing it as a good example of entrepreneurship.

"Given the variety of disincentives that unfortunately can be found throughout our economic environment, entrepreneurs with great ideas and with the drive to transform these ideas into economic activity, are forced to think long and hard [if they should pursue them].

"The areas on which you have chosen to focus underscores the fact that even in challenging times, firms and individuals must be vigilant in the process of protecting themselves and their hard-earned resources," Samunda said.

While acknowledging the role of the fire brigade, Samuda said that as property-owners and individuals, we are responsible for the protection of our investments. He urged businessmen not to leave the safety of their enterprises to chance as this, in the past, has been the downfall of many.

"The graveyard of many firms or personal undertakings is populated with the casualties of such a course of action."

Not one to miss an opportunity to highlight the importance of enterprises such as SSFPS, and their contribution to the economy, Samuda mentioned the growth of business registration at the JCC.

"We also consider it critical that we not let up in the fight to create the enabling environment that will make it easier for our dreams to be realised as more and more young entrepreneurs join our ranks".

Today, more than 55 countries, including Japan and China, are successfully using the systems which SSFPS will implement in Jamaica.