Law enforcement officers throughout the Public Service have strengthened their response capacity with the successful completion of the Emergency Care and Treatment (ECAT) Advanced First Aid Training Course, facilitated by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI) as part of an ongoing training programme for law enforcement and border control agencies. 

The training, held from 13th to 24th April 2026, saw over 45 public officers from the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service, His Majesty’s Prison, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, His Majesty’s Customs Department, the Department of Immigration, the BVI Airport Authority, and the Department of Facilities Management, equipping them with essential life-saving skills to effectively manage medical emergencies until professional assistance arrives.

Delivered in two one-week cohorts, the comprehensive programme focused on practical, hands-on training. Participants were exposed to key areas including emergency site protocols, basic human anatomy, injury assessment and treatment, patient handling techniques, and real-time problem-solving in high-pressure situations.

The course was led by Mr. Peter C. Burgess, PAHO/WHO Regional Trainer - Subject Area Expert and former member of the Barbados Defence Force with more than 26 years of experience. Reflecting on the training, Mr. Burgess underscored the importance of sharing knowledge and early intervention, noting that much can be done to preserve life before Emergency Medical Services arrive. He Said, “Early intervention can make the difference between life and death. A great deal can be done to save a life before Emergency Medical Services arrive, because the first response often comes from those already present. In island communities, where there may be challenges in dispatching medical teams quickly, having the know-how to respond in a crisis is critical. This knowledge must be shared so that we can close the gap between the moment an emergency occurs and the arrival of professional medical assistance.”

The successful completion of the ECAT course signals that participants are now better prepared not only to provide emergency care while on duty, but also serve as valuable community resources during times of crisis, empowering both the Public Service and the wider Virgin Islands community.

The following public officers successfully completed the course:

Adrian Stoutt

Aldone Denton

Annecha Graham

Beyonce DaBreo

Calvin Mactavious

Clementina Lewis

Curtis Brown

Cuthbert Robinson

David Shondel

Delma Tavernier

Donaldson Layne

Edgar Hall

Eldo Davis

Enrico Bowens

Gary Hillhous

Javier Hodge

Jerald Fornord

Jermaine Brewley

Juilet Christopher

Kenroy Palmer

Larry Larocque

Leesean Smith

Lisbon Browne

Mandel Jimmy

Myron Hastings

Nadine Marshall

Nicholas Cooper

Raynald Williams

Roselyn Alfred-Robin

Roy Thomas

Samory Romney

Shakhoy Smith

Shemika Letteen

Shenell Brewley

Sherica Thomas

Sheriss Telemaque

Shawn Rymer

Sienna Peters

Ted Thomas

Teriel William

Tiffany Herbert Fahie

Travon Gumbs

Trevor Chalwell

Tyrese Steves

Tyrone Varlack

Winston Farrington Jr

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to the ongoing development of its public officers through targeted training initiatives that strengthen capacity and build resilience.

 

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