Anambra State Government has expressed worry over incessant and preventable fire outbreaks recorded in different parts of the state.
Commissioner for Special Duties, Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche, in a statement on Monday revealed that the state recorded 24 fire outbreaks between September, 2023 and February 16, 2024, with highest incidents occurring last month.
She said while nine fire incidents were recorded in January, eight infernos have been recorded this month.
She urged residents to prioritize fire safety measures in residential and public buildings, markets and other business premises.
While commending State Fire Service headed by Fire Chief, Engr Martins Agbili, for averting the fire outbreaks and preventing any loss of life and huge loss to property, the Commissioner underscored the need for residents to partner government to prevent future occurrance.
“Citizens and residents of the state must always ensure all electrical appliances are switched off when not in use.
“They must ensure repairs and engineering works on electrical connections are carried out by trained professionals.
“They must avoid indiscriminate bush burning, install fire extinguishers or hydrants in their houses, cars and other places where necessary.
“They should invite the state fire service to conduct thorough fire audits in residential and public buildings under construction.
“The state government will, on its part, increase the response time of the state fire service to any fire emergency anywhere in the state through the acquisition of more fire trucks, training of personnel and setting up of fire stations in all the 21 local government areas and all major markets in the state,” the statement partly reads.
