Lagos Launches Fire Safety Campaign To Prevent Market Blazes
2 min read
In a bid to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks in Lagos markets during the current harmattan season, the state government has launched an extensive public awareness campaign.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, was officially kicked off on Tuesday in Jankara Market, Lagos Island.
Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, speaking at the flag-off event, stressed the importance of safety consciousness among traders.
He noted that the harmattan season, known for its dryness and increased fire risk, necessitated heightened vigilance in market areas.
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“This enlightenment campaign focuses on fire safety, and it is important that all market traders are aware of the risks that come with harmattan.
The season brings extra dangers due to the dry conditions, which significantly increase the likelihood of fire outbreaks. Carelessness is a leading cause of such incidents, and we must all be more cautious in our activities,” Mojola remarked.
Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, reiterated the importance of fire prevention in markets.
She pointed out that the government aims for 100% compliance from traders with fire safety protocols.
“The fire that ravaged over 20 houses in April this year was caused by carelessness. Since then, there has been a notable reduction in market fire incidents, but we are committed to eliminating these risks entirely,” Adeseye said.
The fire safety guidelines include discouraging practices such as sleeping in markets, using camp gas for cooking, and overloading electrical sockets. Markets are also urged to incorporate fire safety discussions into their regular meetings to promote awareness.
Abdul Yusuf, Chairman of the Wristwatches Sellers Association at Jankara Market, expressed gratitude for the government’s continued efforts to ensure market safety.
He commended the public awareness campaigns as vital for preventing future tragedies.
