The Federal Fire Service, Gombe State Command has urged residents to adopt strict fire safety measures as temperatures continue to rise across the country.
The command warned that the current heatwave conditions significantly increase the risk of fire outbreaks in homes, markets, offices and other public places if precautionary steps are not taken.
Public Relations Officer of the command, Muazu Musa, gave the advice in a statement issued on Saturday in Gombe.
He noted that the increased temperature during the period could easily trigger fire incidents, especially where electrical appliances and flammable materials are poorly handled.
According to him, residents should handle electrical appliances carefully and avoid overloading power sockets to prevent overheating and electrical fires.
“The recent rise in temperature and heatwave conditions being experienced across several parts of the country increases the risk of fire outbreaks in homes, markets, offices and other public places if proper precautions are not taken,” Musa said.
He also cautioned residents against the careless use and storage of gas cylinders, petroleum products and other flammable materials, particularly under extreme heat conditions.
“Members of the public are advised to ensure that electrical installations are properly maintained by qualified technicians and to switch off electrical appliances when not in use to reduce the likelihood of fire incidents,” he added.
The command further warned against indiscriminate bush burning and the dumping of burning refuse, especially in dry and windy conditions.
According to Musa, such practices could easily escalate into uncontrollable fires that may endanger lives, property and the environment.
“Residents should desist from indiscriminate bush burning and the dumping of burning refuse, as these practices can quickly escalate into uncontrollable fires during this dry and hot period,” he said.
He also encouraged residents to take preventive steps against heat-related health challenges by staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and paying attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with underlying health conditions.
Musa reiterated the commitment of the Federal Fire Service to safeguarding lives and property through continuous public enlightenment, emergency response and collaboration with relevant agencies on disaster risk reduction.
The command, he said, appreciates the cooperation of residents and called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing fire disasters during the period of high temperatures.
