KINGSTON, Jamaica – The three firefighters who were injured when a gas cylinder exploded while in the line of duty last Monday are reportedly making satisfactory progress in hospital.

A release from the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development said Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development Colin Fagan visited the injured men on Wednesday.

They, along with others, responded to a fire at a house on Olympic Way in Kingston and after extinguishing the blaze a gas cylinder exploded while moving it.  The men received first and second degree burns to different areas of their bodies, including their faces, arms and legs.

Fagan, who has responsibility for the Jamaica Fire Brigade, said he was assured by senior medical officers that the injured firefighters are progressing satisfactorily and they are getting the full attention of the doctors, nurses and general hospital staff.

The minister said he was particularly pleased to see and hear the progress of McFarlane who was the most affected by the incident; he remains in Intensive Care at the Kingston Public Hospital. While his case is not considered critical, he is at a delicate stage in the recovery process and continues to require close attention.

The minister has expressed his deep appreciation to the hospital staff for working diligently to ensure the firefighters full recovery.

Fagan said he spoke directly with the firefighters wishing them a speedy recovery. He expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government and the people of Jamaica; he also informed them that their bravery has not gone unnoticed, the release said