The Lagos state’s Fire and Rescue Service, in conjunction with the Safety Commission, has initiated a campaign to educate market traders on fire prevention measures and safety protocols.
According to The PUNCH, this is in response to recent fire incidents in Lagos State markets.
The Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Ololade Agboola, announced this development in a statement on Thursday.
Notably, a fire accident on November 3 caused the destruction of at least 300 shops in the Ladipo plank market in Orile-Iganmu, leading to over 1000 traders losing their goods.
The fire, which began at midnight, was eventually contained through the joint efforts of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency and the Lagos Fire Service.
The sensitisation programme commenced at markets in Oshodi and is scheduled to cover other major markets across the state.
The Fire Service, in collaboration with the Safety Commission, has officially launched the 2023 Fire Prevention Campaign.
This campaign aims to raise awareness in public marketplaces under the theme “Mitigating Fire Risk through Fire Prevention.”
The statement read, “Day 1 of the campaign extended its advocacy to Docemo, Oju-Olobun, Jankara, and Cairo Market in Oshodi. This comprehensive effort is set to continue throughout the week, covering major markets across the metropolis.
“Addressing the media, Mr. Lanre Mojola emphasized the pivotal role of market traders in ensuring market safety. He stressed the importance of instilling a safety culture within and around marketplaces, with the aim of positively influencing both traders and customers.
“Adeseye reported that the Fire and Rescue Service has responded to 12 market-related calls this year due to negligence, highlighting the pressing need to sensitize the market populace. This is especially crucial as the Harmattan season approaches, bringing with it an increased risk of fire outbreaks.
“She further urged market dwellers to adhere to safety warnings and promptly report any emergencies to the State’s toll-free numbers 767 or 112. The ongoing sensitization builds upon the simulation exercises initiated a few weeks ago involving public servants and market traders.
“The programme is set to extend to various segments of the public, reaching beyond marketplaces and into grassroots communities,” Agboola said.
