No fewer than five fire incidents were recorded yesterday in parts of Anambra State, the Director, Fire Service, Mr. Martin Agbili, has said.
Agbili, an engineer, said in a statement that most of the incidents were caused by bush burning.
He urged residents to always check their surroundings, including cutting and clearing bush around their homes, churches, mosques, markets, schools, among others, to avoid regrets.
Agbili said: “About 60 per cent of the fire outbreaks we combated in this dry season were as a result of indiscriminate bush burning that easily spread to structures.
“The majority of the bush burning occurred in rural communities where residents, especially hunters, indiscriminately set fire on bushes during the dry season.
“We should cut all bushes to at least five feet away from our homes, schools, churches, markets and offices. If it is not done, fire can easily spread from there to any closest structure.”
“Just today, we have about five fire outbreaks. Four of them were caused by bush fire and distress calls are still coming.
“One of the fire outbreaks occurred around 10:39am at Deeper Life Street, Ogbunike.
“The fire ignited from bush burning, then spread to Sinaco Way House at Deeper Life Street, Amawa, Ogbunike, near toll gate.
“The fire is under control now. Fire prevention is everybody’s business. Avoid anything that can cause fire outbreak during this harmattan.”