The Jamaica Fire Brigade says 19 people perished in fires and 45 others were injured up to October of this year.

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie made the disclosure while speaking at a fire brigade graduation ceremony yesterday (December 3).

He said the fires also resulted in 1, 468 Jamaicans being left homeless.

Mr. McKenzie said despite the efforts by the firefighters they are sometimes criticized for these casualties.

Nonetheless, he urged the new crop of firefighters not to be daunted by the criticisms, as they are vital to public service.