Bridgetown, Barbados: Sagicor continues to champion fire prevention and public safety education through its title sponsorship of the Barbados Fire Service Primary School Quiz Competition.

President and Chief Executive Officer at Sagicor General Insurance Inc. (SGI) Patrick Hinkson says initiatives focused on education and prevention are critical to helping build safer communities and reducing everyday risks before they occur. The competition hosted at the Media Resources Department brought together class four students from several primary schools across the island to test their knowledge of fire prevention, emergency preparedness and safety in an engaging and interactive quiz.

Senior Underwriter Kerrie Bruce who delivered remarks on behalf of the company at the quiz, said the initiative reflects SGI’s belief that prevention and education go hand in hand with protection. “At Sagicor General Insurance we believe education is one of the most powerful forms of protection. While insurance helps people recover after unexpected events, initiatives like this help reduce risks before they happen. That is why we are proud to support programmes that focus on empowering young people with practical, life-saving knowledge,” she said.

She noted that introducing fire safety awareness at a young age can have long-term benefits for individuals, families and communities. “Today’s quiz final highlights something we oftentimes overlook, safety education starts early. The habits we develop as children often stay with us for life. Teaching young people about fire prevention, emergency preparedness and personal safety helps to create stronger, more aware communities for the future,” she stated.

Bruce added that the impact of the programme extends far beyond the competition itself, with students becoming advocates for safer practices within their homes,schools and communities. She also praised the Barbados Fire Service for its continued commitment to public education and outreach, noting that communities play a vital role in building national awareness around fire prevention.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick thanked Sagicor for its continued partnership and support of the initiative which is now in its second year, noting the importance of collaborative efforts to strengthen public awareness around fire safety and prevention.

At the end of the competition, Arthur Smith Primary School came out as champions, with Hilda Skeene Primary as the runners-up. In addition to several goodies, the winning school also received a fire extinguisher.