The Anambra Fire Service says it recorded a total of 114 outbreaks with 15 deaths and five injuries in the year 2021 in the state
Mr Martin Agbili, Chief Fire Officer in the state made the disclosure in Awka on Thursday.
Agbili, who said the figure for 2021 was 30 less than the 144 recorded in 2020, pointed out that the months of January, February and December recorded the highest cases with 18, 14 and 24 respectively.
He said the Fire Service had recorded 40 outbreaks as at Feb. 2 this year with 38 in January alone.
He said the estimated value of property destroyed in the infernos was not yet available as it is still being calculated.
The Fire Chief said the use of domestic fuel ( cooking gas and adulterated kerosene) and bush burning were responsible for most residential building fire outbreaks.
He advised people to be more cautious in using gas cooker and stove while warning that bush burning should be avoided especially during harmattan and dry season
“Those who use gas should ensure the cylinder is outside, they should check for leaks regularly and make a rule that children should not go near them. Camp gas should be used in a ventilated place.
“For those using stove, they should test for the purity of the kerosene and the best way to do it is take a little quantity and try to inflame it. If it catches with force, it is possible that it has been adulterated with petrol which is far cheaper than kerosene,” he said.
Agbili said another challenge with emergency response was motorists’ refusal to give way to fire trucks in heavy traffic and congested areas like Onitsha.
He said fire trucks blaring syrens were not on pleasure ride but on a mission to save lives and property and those blocking their way way could be victims.
