The fire station building at Port Louis poses a safety hazard

The dilapidated fire station building at Port Louis, which dates back to 1906, poses a serious safety hazard to everyone who works in it. This has been highlighted in an alarming report published by the Workplace Health and Safety Department of the Ministry of Local Government and Outer Islands. The inspection has revealed enormous potential risks due to ageing infrastructure.

“Heavy cracks have appeared all along the walls of the building, representing a potential hazard to both officers and equipment. Planks on the flooring are damaged at several places. Openings in the floor have also been noted. Doors and windows are damaged,” reads the report. It also mentions the probability of a fire breaking out in the firehouse.

“Spoiled wooden structures have given rise to frequent water leakages during the rainy season. There is a major risk of electrocution and fire outbreak with bundles of electrical wires left trailing about. Electrical installations are not according to standards,” the report further reads.

According to another report, the station is infested with termites.Minister of Local Government Hervé Aimée said , “We have been working on this project since a while now and have identified potential locations, including one at Roche Bois for a new fire station.” He also announced the future purchase of a fire engine equipped with a telescopic arm that will be able to reach places as high as 30 metres