The Institution of Fire Engineers has announced the launch of a new Caribbean and South America (CASA) branch.

The branch officially launched this week with its inaugural AGM and conference taking place in Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago. The two-day event focused on ‘A regional approach to capacity and capability building’ bringing together stakeholders including fire engineering leaders, first responders and government officials from across the region to establish a unified approach to fire prevention, risk, disaster management and emergency response.

Steve Hamm, IFE Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled to launch the CASA branch. This development builds on the existing presence that the IFE has had for many years in Trinidad and Tobago and the hard work and dedication of our members in that area.

“There has been a real concerted effort with the IFE headquarters team working with key personnel from the Government of the Virgin Islands and the University of West Indies to get this branch established and I thank everyone involved in this project.

“We are committed to supporting professionalism and competency in fire engineering across the world. CASA will give fire engineers in the region access to greater education and qualifications, as well as the knowledge sharing and networking opportunities that are among the many benefits of being an IFE member.”

“CASA will give fire engineers in the region access to greater education and qualifications, as well as the knowledge sharing and networking opportunities that are among the many benefits of being an IFE member.”

CASA branch president, Professor Clyde Phillip from the University of West Indies, added: “We are looking forward to promoting IFE CASA and encouraging fire and emergency response professionals in the region to learn more about our work and how the Institution can benefit them in their everyday lives.

“Our branch ethos is all about providing the knowledge and expertise required to strengthen the skills and instincts of fire professionals enabling them to identify, develop and sustain the targeted capabilities necessary for continuous improvement and reducing the occurrence of fire and other incidents.

“We will also build on the integration with risk and disaster management personnel in strengthening capability and resilience through standardisation, collaboration and certification within CASA. Our branch will be a supportive network for the region, offering membership, qualifications and events.”