CPFSA RECEIVES FIRE REPORT ON WALKER'S PLACE OF SAFETY

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) today received the Fire Brigade’s Fire Report on Walkers Place of Safety, which was destroyed by fire on January 16, 2018. The report outlined that the cause, origin, growth and spread of the fire, resulted from an electrical short-circuit and originated in one of the children’s room (female dorm) at the floor level to the west of the building. The heavy fire-load that was distributed throughout the structure contributed to the rapid growth and spread of the fire, which resulted in the collapsing and caving in of the roof. Efforts were made to find the two (2) missing wards alive but were unsuccessful due to the deteriorating condition of the building due to the fire. Further details of the report highlighted that based on the Brigade’s last inspection of the facility on July 28, 2016; it was found to be in full compliance with standard fire prevention practices. In accordance with our safety and security protocols, the home was equipped with smoke detectors, a fire alarm system, and five (5) fire extinguishers mounted at key areas recommended. As is mandatory, the home prepared and submitted its Emergency Disaster Preparedness Plan in 2017 which was tested with a series of fire drills conducted in 2017. The Fire Department also visited the home in December 2017 to undertake a sensitization with the staff and children. Corporate Office: 48 Duke Street, Kingston, Tele: 948-2841-2 Email: info@childprotection.gov.jm Website: www.cda.gov.jm 2 | P a g e In November 2017, the agency commissioned a Physical Security Inspection and Assessment at the Walker’s Place of Safety The outcome of the assessment highlighted that the home was disaster ready; both caregivers and children having participated in series of training were knowledgeable of the fire escape plan. From our internal reports, the actions of the staff and wards on the night played a significant part in reducing the amount of lives lost and children injured, especially based on the extent of the blaze and speed at which it spread. The agency initially commissioned Physical Security Inspection and Assessments for all government facilities however, based on recommendations and in keeping with the directive of the Prime Minister, inspections were also conducted at private child care facilities which have been completed. In preparation for the re-licensing of child care facilities, the CPFSA met with the Government Electrical Inspectorate for a collaborative approach for the inspection of all child care facilities. We continue to extend our condolences to family of the deceased children and with the support of our parent Ministry; we have been in discussion with the families regarding arrangements for burial and long term assistance. A Technical Project team led by the National Education Trust has been assigned to coordinate the rebuilding efforts to include architectural drawings and cost to demolish the existing structure as well as preparations to begin the rebuilding of a purpose built facility.