The West Coast Fire Station has officially commenced operations, marking a significant milestone for the communities of Anse La Raye, Canaries, and surrounding areas. The new facility addresses a long-standing need for improved emergency services in the region, which previously relied on distant stations in Castries and Soufrière. Chief Fire Officer Ditney Downes emphasized the challenges in securing a suitable location, stating, ‘Finding a property in the Anse La Raye/Canaries area was no easy task, but we eventually identified this site, and the prime minister was promptly informed.’ The station’s strategic location aims to reduce response times, which were often delayed due to the winding coastal roads. Former constituency representative Wayne Girard, a candidate in the upcoming general election, highlighted the broader impact of the station, calling it ‘peace of mind, faster emergency response, and safer communities for all residents.’ Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who also spoke at the opening ceremony, underscored the station’s non-partisan purpose, stating, ‘This fire station will serve everybody. When a fire catches, no one will know who is UWP and who is Labour.’ The station’s contact number is 1 758 572 2830, and dialing 911 within the area will redirect calls to its control room. Additionally, the station will launch a mentorship programme targeting 15 young males aged 13 to 16 from the local community, addressing recruitment challenges and fostering life skills and self-confidence among participants.
New West Coast fire station to cut response times for Anse La Raye, Canaries
