The Niger State Fire Service has urged Nigerians to avoid indiscriminate bush burning as a measure to prevent frequent fire outbreaks during the harmattan season.
The Controller of the Niger State Fire Service, Baba Alhaji-Alikali, made the appeal on Thursday in a statement by Ibrahim Lokogoma, Acting Senior Fire Prevention Officer.
Alhaji-Alikali noted the increased risk of fire disasters during harmattan and called for vigilance.
He advised Nigerians to switch off and unplug all electrical appliances when leaving homes or offices.
He also stressed the importance of keeping fire extinguishers nearby, avoiding overloading electrical sockets, and ensure flammable materials are kept away from heat sources.
Alhaji-Alikali warned against parking recently-driven vehicles on dry grass, as the heat from the engine could ignite a fire.
He further urged people to properly extinguish charcoal with water before disposal and to avoid using defective gas cookers or carelessly discarding cigarette butts.
“Harmattan period is at hand when incessant fire outbreak is experienced and for the safety control against the fire disaster in the state.
“People are advised to switch off all electrical appliances and disconnect them from the source when leaving your homes or offices.
“Always keep fire extinguishers nearby and do not overload your electrical sockets. Keep flammable materials away from igniting sources and avoid parking recently-driven vehicles on dry grasses
“Using of defective gas cooker be discouraged, careless discarding of cigarette ends be avoided.
“Avoid indiscriminate bush burning, clearing of surrounding to at least 50ft apart to serve as a fire break,” the statement read.
The fire service controller also recommended creating a firebreak by clearing a 50-foot radius around properties to reduce the risk of fire spread. He encouraged property owners to insure their assets against fire damage as an added precaution. Insure your property against fire,” the statement added
Alhaji-Alikali called on all individuals, government institutions, market operators, business owners, and corporate organizations to adhere strictly to fire prevention guidelines to ensure the safety of lives and property during this period.
He also urged the public to promptly report emergencies by contacting the Niger State Fire Service through the following numbers: 080535833632, 08062420591, 09068795027.