GREAT BAY--As St. Maarten embraces electric vehicles, solar energy systems, rechargeable batteries and other environmentally friendly technologies, the Fire Department is urging residents to pay closer attention to the fire hazards associated with these increasingly common products, particularly improper charging practices, overheating and the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries.
The warning comes as the Fire and Ambulance Departments prepare to host their annual Open House on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Jackal Road 5 in Cay Hill, coinciding with Constitution Day.
The event forms part of Fire Prevention Month, being observed throughout October under the theme"Think Green, Think Safety,"which emphasizes that the transition toward cleaner energy must also be accompanied by greater public awareness of the safety risks associated with new technologies.
During a special edition of the Government'sInside Governmentprogram with Cedric Peterson, Fire Prevention Officer Kirk Richardson, Section Head of Repression Sherwin Villareal and Ambulance Department Secretary Valeska Laurent discussed the changing demands facing emergency services, the importance of public education and the activities planned for the upcoming community event.
Lithium Batteries Present New Challenges for Firefighters
Richardson explained that the growing presence of electric vehicles, electric bicycles and solar energy storage systems has introduced new fire risks that require specialized knowledge and preparation.
He recalled an incident approximately three years ago involving an electric bicycle fire in St. Maarten, shortly before several firefighters traveled to Curaçao for training in green energy safety.
The training provided greater insight into the dangers associated with lithium batteries and the challenges firefighters may encounter when responding to incidents involving battery-powered equipment.
Richardson emphasized that while green technologies offer environmental benefits, residents must also understand how to use, charge and maintain them safely.
He identified charging practices as an important area of concern, warning against placing rechargeable batteries and electronic devices on beds or other surfaces where heat can accumulate.
According to Richardson, overheating batteries can develop dangerous conditions, including smoke, flames and the ignition of nearby combustible materials.
He explained that the hazards can become particularly serious with larger battery systems, including those used in laptops, electric bicycles and electric vehicles.
Richardson also encouraged residents to pay attention to prolonged charging, heat buildup and the condition of charging equipment.
For electric vehicles, he warned that battery incidents can produce intense smoke and flames, creating dangers for occupants and anyone standing nearby.
He advised motorists to move away from an electric vehicle if its battery begins producing smoke and to avoid remaining close to the vehicle as the situation develops.
The department intends to use Fire Prevention Month to explain these hazards and promote safer practices involving rechargeable devices, certified equipment, solar installations and battery-powered transportation.
Fire and Ambulance Open House to Feature Demonstrations and Activities
The October 12 Open House will give residents an opportunity to meet the professionals responsible for emergency response and see how both departments operate.
Villareal explained that the event is intended to strengthen the relationship between emergency personnel and the community by allowing residents to see equipment, participate in demonstrations and better understand what happens behind the scenes.
Visitors will be able to tour the fire and ambulance stations, view emergency vehicles and participate in activities designed to promote fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
The program will include live demonstrations, educational activities, obstacle courses and opportunities for children and adults to interact with firefighters and ambulance personnel.
A Kids Zone will provide additional entertainment and family activities, while the departments will use the occasion to introduce young visitors to the work of emergency responders.
Ambulance Department to Demonstrate CPR and Emergency Response
Laurent said the Ambulance Department will host demonstrations showing residents how they can assist during medical emergencies before professional responders arrive.
A major focus will be cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, which can help save lives when a person experiences cardiac arrest.
The demonstrations will explain the importance of beginning CPR promptly and performing the technique correctly.
Ambulance personnel will also introduce visitors to equipment used during emergency medical responses and explain the information dispatchers need when receiving emergency calls.
Laurent emphasized that effective ambulance services depend on several professionals working together, beginning with dispatchers who receive emergency calls and gather essential information.
She explained that operational ambulance teams include nurses responsible for medical care and drivers who transport patients safely while also assisting with tasks such as monitoring vital signs.
The department will also offer ambulance rides for children, providing an opportunity for young visitors to experience an emergency vehicle in a supervised and welcoming environment.
Emergency Services Encourage Young People to Consider Careers
Beyond public safety education, the Open House will introduce young people to career opportunities within the Fire and Ambulance Departments.
Villareal described firefighting as a profession requiring discipline, integrity, physical fitness, teamwork and a genuine commitment to serving the community.
He emphasized that firefighters must constantly train and prepare for different emergencies, including fires, technical rescues and incidents involving hazardous materials.
Richardson also explained that fire prevention involves much more than responding to fires. The department participates in planning the placement of fire hydrants, reviewing building safety requirements and conducting inspections.
These responsibilities include evaluating emergency exits, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency lighting and other measures intended to protect occupants and emergency responders.
He noted that individuals with technical education and experience in firefighting can pursue additional training to develop careers in fire prevention and inspection.
Laurent similarly encouraged young people interested in healthcare, nursing, emergency dispatch and ambulance operations to explore opportunities within emergency medical services.
She stressed that the Ambulance Department provides training to help personnel develop the skills required to carry out their responsibilities safely and effectively.
Building Trust Between Emergency Personnel and the Community
Villareal emphasized that firefighters and ambulance personnel work closely together during emergencies and must maintain strong relationships to ensure coordinated responses.
He identified communication, trust and training as essential to effective cooperation, explaining that emergency scenes leave little room for confusion about responsibilities.
Joint training and mutual respect, he said, help establish the relationships needed long before an emergency occurs.
He also highlighted the importance of introducing children to emergency personnel at an early age.
By allowing children to sit inside fire trucks, explore ambulances and meet the people responsible for emergency response, the departments hope to reduce fear, build trust and inspire future generations to consider careers in emergency services.
Villareal said the Fire and Ambulance Departments approach their responsibilities as one team, working toward the shared goal of protecting the St. Maarten community.
Entire Community Invited
The Fire and Ambulance Departments are encouraging residents of all ages to attend the Open House on Monday, October 12.
The event will run from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Fire and Ambulance Station, Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill.
Families can expect safety demonstrations, station tours, emergency vehicle displays, children's activities, obstacle courses and opportunities to meet firefighters and emergency medical personnel.
With this year's focus on "Think Green, Think Safety," the departments hope residents will leave with a better understanding of both traditional fire prevention and the emerging risks associated with modern energy technologies.
The broader objective is to strengthen public awareness, encourage safer practices at home and in the workplace, and deepen the relationship between the community and the professionals who respond when emergencies occur.
For additional information about the Open House, residents may contact the Fire Department at 543-1316.
