The number of firefighters in Samoa has improved by 15 after new firefighters graduated from a four week course on Friday.

There were 14 men and one female in the class which included recruits from Savai’i.

Four new firefighters will be based at Maota Savaii, one for Asau Station, four at the Faleata Station and six will be based at Apia.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (F.E.S.A), Leta’a Dan Devoe, congratulated the new recruits.

“This is the end of one chapter but the beginning of several more,” said Leta’a. 

He said that this is the first of many steps they will take to make firefighting a career, so they can serve the country and to contribute to the wellbeing of their families. 

 “Every time the alarm sounds and the vehicles roll out of the station, staff lives are at risk but I am comforted with the knowledge that the training given to the graduating class will equip them to be wise and careful,” Leta’a said.

He reminded that since the Flea Market fire, F.E.S.A has come under the microscope immensely, with the public keeping a close watch on their activities.

“They will criticize and they will judge,” he said. “All we need to do is the best we could to fulfill our mission and mandate in saving lives and properties for our nation.”

He also congratulated F.E.S.A Commissioner Lelevaga Mupo and his leadership.  David Masoe received the best recruit firefighter award. 

Moefiti Moananu spoke on behalf of the new recruits, and he thanked the Commissioner and the staff of F.E.S.A for the opportunity.