PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Fire Chief and National Disaster Coordinator (NDC) Clive Richardson says the Sint Maarten Fire Department and Ambulance Department will open their doors to the community on Monday, October 12, 2026, for a special Open House aimed at promoting safety, prevention, the use of green energy sources, and greater public understanding of the work carried out by the country's emergency services.
The Open House will take place from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Fire and Ambulance Station, Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill, and will provide residents with an opportunity to meet firefighters and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, tour the facilities and emergency vehicles, and learn more about the important role both departments play in protecting the community.
Under the theme, “Think Green, Think Safety,” the event will focus on the safe use of green energy technologies, protecting the community and protecting ourselves, while providing an educational and family-friendly experience for visitors of all ages.
Members of the public can tour the Fire and Ambulance stations, view fire trucks, ambulances, and emergency-response equipment, and interact directly with firefighters and EMS personnel.
The Open House will also feature hands-on activities and safety education to help visitors better understand emergency preparedness, fire prevention, and the work of first responders.
The event will include demonstrations and activities, opportunities to meet firefighters and EMS personnel, food and beverages, and a Kids Zone with music and entertainment, making the Open House an event for the entire family.
The Fire Department views public education and prevention as important components of community safety. Giving residents, particularly children and young people, opportunities to interact with emergency personnel can build awareness of fire safety, emergency preparedness, and the appropriate use of emergency services.
The Ambulance Department will also use the occasion to provide the public with greater insight into emergency medical response and the work of EMS personnel who respond to medical emergencies throughout Sint Maarten.
The green energy component of the Open House will help educate the public on how green technologies differ from traditional fuel sources and the unique fire and safety considerations associated with their use.
Visitors will learn about emerging risks related to battery-powered systems, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies, as well as the importance of safe installation, operation, and maintenance.
The Fire Department will also explain how incidents involving lithium-ion batteries and other energy storage systems require different firefighting techniques, equipment, and expertise than traditional structure fires.
The department welcomes and encourages efforts to protect and preserve the environment through cleaner technologies but also emphasizes the importance of understanding and mitigating the associated safety risks.
Through the theme "Think Green, Think Safety," residents are encouraged to consider both environmental responsibility and household safety as we work together toward a safer, cleaner, and greener Sint Maarten.
Families are especially encouraged to attend and give children an opportunity to become familiar with firefighters, EMS personnel, emergency vehicles and equipment in an educational and welcoming environment.
The Fire Department and Ambulance Department invite the entire community to “Come Out, Connect and See What We Do.”
The Open House will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill.
For emergencies, call 911 or 919. For non-emergency event inquiries, call 543-1316.
Together, let's build a safer, greener Sint Maarten.
