Bukola Abe
The best way to manage fire outbreaks is prevention.
This was the submission of the guests on issues in the news, a Radio One News and Current Affairs programme.
Head, Public Education unit, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mr Shakiru Amodu said thirty two fire incidents have been foiled on Otedola Bridge in 2025 preventing them from becoming a disaster except for the last gas explosion.
Mr Amodu explained that everyone should become fire marshals who are knowledgeable about handling and curbing fire spreads.
“Last six months have been tough for us as a country its been back to back in Jigawa, Delta, Rivers, Niger state and there were fatalities as many lives were involved but last week, lagos had its fair share, that is the number thirty two in Lagos this year, that Femi Otedola tanker fire.”
On his part, Search and Rescue Officer, National Emergency Management Agency, Lagos Operations, Mr Adewale Adedokun warned that fear and panic at the sight of fire are triggers for disaster.
Mr Adedokun listed fire blankets, fire balls, and extinguishers as necessities for every household to prevent fire outbreaks.
“Apart from major fires, looking at fires at home and all that, we must always have our fire extinguishers, fire balls, and fire blankets hung around the corridors.”
Mr Adedokun advised Lagosians to turn off all electrical appliances while not in sight and always place cooking gas cylinders outside the kitchen.
The duo frowned at raising false alarms while reporting fire incidents, saying such acts could endanger the lives of those who actually need help at the same time.