The Ministries of Local Government and Health have partnered to provide the Jamaica Fire Brigade with ambulances to boost fire fighters’ capabilities to assist persons who sustain injuries in motor vehicle accidents.

Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, says the fire brigades role goes beyond putting out fires, pointing out that they also respond to major accidents.

He says the Ministry of Health has been working closely with the Ministry of Local Government, where there is now a collective approach to equip the fire-fighters with ambulances.

He adds that once they have the right tools and the right training, fire fighters will be better able to save lives.

Mr. McKenzie was speaking at a ceremony for the presentation of an ambulance to the Hanover Municipal Corporation at the Lucea fire station on Friday.

Meanwhile, Mr. McKenzie is urging motorists and other road users to exercise caution while travelling.

He lamented the high incidence of traffic accidents, particularly in western Jamaica, which he said accounted for a significant percentage of the overall road fatalities.

He attributed this to a culture of indiscipline on the roadways, noting that the fatal outcomes often place significant pressure on the capabilities of key responders such as the fire brigade.