95% of Lagos fire outbreaks due to unsafe acts, ignorance – Fire boss

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Controller-General, Lagos Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, has said that investigations has shown that 95 per cent of fires outbreaks in the state are caused by unsafe acts due to lack of knowledge by members of the public.

The revelation is coming on the heels of incessant outbreak of fire, particularly across markets and workplaces in recent times.

Adeseye, disclosed this on Saturday during a Safety Walk and Inauguration of Lagos State Fire Marshals Club, held at the state Secretariat, Alausa, which witnessed a sensitization walk from Alausa to Ikeja Under Bridge, via Awolowo Way.

According to Adeseye, the initiative, which include awareness campaigns, inotder to educate the public on fire safety, aims to further reduce fire incidents through the training and deployment of fire marshals in the community as marshals would be equipped with basic knowledge to prevent and respond to fire incidents effectively as first responders.

“The collaboration with first responders and the Lagos State Fire Service is part of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s vision for a safer Lagos.

The current government and Fire and Rescue Service leadership are passionate about reducing fires. Awareness and knowledge are key to preventing fire incidents, and the initiative aims to provide this knowledge.

“So, the initiative is seen as an opportunity for the public to partner with the Lagos State Fire Service.

“The goal is to convert the public into partners in progress for fire safety,” she stressed.

Marshals speak

One of the marshals, Mr. Ajao Sulaimon, a community leader said, “I joined because there are so many fire incidents in Lagos which is principally because of inadequate knowledge about fire prevention.

“Joining the fire marshal will be a good one for me to have better understanding about fire prevention and management. I will also help mitigate fire incident before fire service officers arrive to the fire incident scene.”

Also, Mr. Abube John, said, “I joined because fire incidents are becoming a very serious issue in Lagos and a knowledge of fire fighting and prevention is very limited among the populace.

“So, as my quota to contribute to the society, I decided to join fire service because I believe joining the club as a marshal is one way through which I can do this and play my own role in ensuring Lagos safety.”

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