By Douglas Okoro
Abakaliki – The Ebonyi State Fire Service (ESFS) has recorded no fewer than 78 fire outbreaks with no casualties in the state between January and November, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
Mr Raphael Eseni, the Director of the Fire Service, who disclosed this to NAN in Abakaliki on Friday said the fire outbreaks occurred in Afikpo and Abakaliki
“We have so far documented about 78 fire incidents within the state and the outbreaks occurred in Abakaliki and Afikpo.
“Due to prompt distress calls which our officers and men responded timely to, we were able to put off the fires before they could cause colossal damage.
“I am happy to inform you that in all the 78 recorded fire outbreaks that no lives were lost and we were able to salvage buildings involved in the outbreaks,” Eseni said.
The chief fire officer said that the service was adequately prepared to respond to any fire emergency in the state.
He said that the organisation had procured six ‘chemical foams’ used for fire fighting as well overhauled the fire engines and emergency response vehicles fitted with state-of-the-art equipment.
“It is important that the public take precautionary measures to avert possible fire outbreaks both at home and in their business areas by observing fire safety tips.
“We advice that all electrical appliances are put off before leaving the house and at the close of business.
“Parents should ensure that inflammable materials including fuel, kerosen, gas cylinders and even match boxes are kept safe and away from the reach of children.
“Don’t overload electrical outlets; electrical fire can be triggered when too many appliances are plugged into the same outlets.
“Keep a multi-purpose six kilogrammme fire extinguisher in the kitchen and make sure that you know how to use it.
“Watch children closely; teach them cooking safety when they are old enough and keep curtains, towels and other inflammables away from stove or gas burner,” he added.
Eseni said that the service had commenced dry season sensitisation campaigns to sensitise the public on fire safety and ways to respond to incidences of fire outbreaks.
He said that Gov. Dave Umahi has approved the purchase of fire fighting equipment and overhaulling of fire machines not only in Abakaliki but also for the outstations in Onueke, Afikpo and Uburu. (NAN)
