NEMA CAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE DISASTERS AND HEALTH RISKS AMID RISING TEMPERATURES
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Following the recent rise in daily temperatures and heatwave conditions across parts of the country, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has cautioned on the heightened risk of fire disasters and related health challenges that may arise from the prevailing weather situation.
The Agency noted that the elevated temperatures being experienced in many parts of the country have been confirmed in recent forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which indicate the likelihood of persistent heat conditions during this period.
The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, therefore according to a media report issued by Head, Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel advised Nigerians to exercise greater caution in the handling and use of materials and appliances that could easily trigger fire outbreaks, particularly under extreme heat conditions.
She urged households, business operators, and public institutions to pay close attention to the safe use of electrical appliances, gas cylinders, and other combustible materials, noting that excessive heat can increase the vulnerability of such items to ignition.
Mrs. Zubaida Umar also emphasized the need for proper storage of flammable substances, avoidance of bush burning, and ensuring that electrical connections are properly maintained to reduce the risk of fire incidents.
In addition to fire safety, the DG NEMA advised citizens to take preventive measures against heat-related health challenges by staying well hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and paying special attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and persons with underlying health conditions.
She further called on residents to remain attentive to weather forecasts and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities, particularly NiMet and emergency management agencies, while urging communities to promptly report any fire outbreak or emergency situation to appropriate response agencies.
The Director-General reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to continuous public awareness and proactive disaster risk reduction in line with the Federal Government’s efforts to safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
