The Cayman Islands Fire Service (CIFS) and the Cayman Islands Coast Guard (CICG) have renewed their
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reaffirming their shared commitment to coordinated maritime
emergency response across the Cayman Islands.
The renewed MOU, signed on 10 July 2026, builds on the formal framework first established in 2024 to
support joint Maritime Search and Rescue, Maritime Search and Recovery, and Maritime Mass Rescue
Operations. It strengthens the long-standing operational partnership between both agencies and provides
a clear structure for communication, training, coordination, and resource sharing during maritime incidents.
The agreement supports faster, more coordinated responses to emergencies affecting coastal
communities, mariners, vessels, and marine assets. It also reinforces the importance of joint planning
between agencies whose responsibilities often intersect during water-based emergencies.
Chief Fire Officer Dwight ‘Randy’ Rankin said the renewed MOU reflects the Fire Service’s commitment
to supporting coordinated lifesaving operations when called upon.
“Safety on the water requires a unified front. This MOU is not just a document; it is a
commitment to the people of the Cayman Islands that when an emergency happens on
the water, the Fire Service stands ready to assist the Coast Guard. By working together,
sharing expertise, and making the best use of available resources, we can strengthen
response times and improve lifesaving outcomes.”
Under the renewed agreement, CIFS and CICG will continue to advance joint operational readiness
through clear response protocols, regular training exercises, and improved information sharing. The MOU
establishes a framework for unified command during critical maritime incidents, helping to reduce
duplication of effort and ensure that both agencies are working from the same operational picture.
Joint training and exercises will support search and rescue readiness, while formal communication
channels will assist with the sharing of timely information related to emergency threats, weather hazards,
distressed vessels, and other incidents requiring coordinated response.
Commandant of the Cayman Islands Coast Guard Robert Scotland, said the renewed partnership
strengthens the country’s overall maritime safety capability.
“The Fire Service brings valuable emergency response experience, specialised
capabilities, and frontline discipline to maritime incidents. By combining that expertise
with the Coast Guard’s maritime operations, we are strengthening the safety net for
commercial mariners, recreational boaters, coastal residents, and visitors.”
The renewed MOU takes effect immediately, with joint training exercises scheduled to begin in the third
quarter of this year.