defensive driving course designed for Fire Service personnel.

The two day course was organised by the company in conjunction with the BF&M General Insurance Company Limited and the Bermuda Fire Service.

The certificates were presented on Tuesday during a ceremony at BELCO, whose holding company owns Bermuda Gas.

Drivers for Bermuda Gas are responsible for heavy loads of flammable propane gas, with the exception of one appliance vehicle.

The course provided both theory and practical sessions covering such topics as the Road Traffic Act and defensive driving skills for operators of heavy goods vehicles. In addition, current company practices relating to vehicle and equipment inspections were reinforced.

"The purpose of this course is to assist the drivers to perform their responsibilities in the utmost safety, not only for themselves but also toward other road users,'' said Mr. John Pacheco, a training officer for the Bermuda Fire Service.

"The participants displayed a high degree of enthusiasm and professionalism through the entire course.

"Indeed it was a pleasure to work with such a group of motivated and skilled individuals.'' Defensive Driving is defined as "driving to prevent collisions in spite of the incorrect action of fellow road users and other adverse conditions.'' In his speech to those who successfully completed the course, Mr. Pacheco attributed the danger on Bermuda's roads to the increased traffic volume and a negative attitude among some drivers. He went on: "Bermuda Gas and Utility Company Ltd. and BF&M General Insurance Company Ltd. are to be commended for their foresight and leadership in the development and support of this driving programme.'' "This type of partnership is the first for us and I am glad that the Fire Service has been able to provide training.'' Mr. Gordon Bussell, General Manager of Bermuda Gas, added: "We are committed to health and safety in the workplace and this includes safe driving practices.'' The Defensive Driving Programme is set to become a standard part of Bermuda Gas' annual Training Programme.

For drivers who complete the course and enrol in a refresher course annually, BF&M is offering a perpetual advanced driver insurance discount.

The insurance company will also offer the drivers a discount on their personal motor insurance coverage.

The Bermuda Fire Service will consider holding the course for other firms who have employees operating heavy vehicles.

ACE DRIVERS -- Twelve lorry drivers employed by the Bermuda Gas & Utility Company Ltd. received driving safety certificates after completing a two-day course. Pictured at top left are Ralph Richardson, Manager of Customer Relations, Bermuda Fire & Marine Insurance Company Ltd. and Gordon Bussell, General Manager of Bermuda Gas. Standing fourth from left and second from right, respectively, are Raymond Knight, Gas Distribution Manager at Bermuda Gas and Peter Killen, Technical Support Manager at Bermuda Gas. Seated at centre is firefighter Robert Davies, Bermuda Fire Service Training Division.

FIREFIGHTERS FIR BUSINESS BUC AWARD AWD