The Federal Fire Service and Nigerian Air Force have agreed to forge tactical expertise in suppressing and stemming the spate of incessant fire outbreaks in the country.
The partnership was sealed when the acting Controller General of the FFS, Dr Karebo Pere Samson, led a delegation of senior firefighters on a courtesy visit to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Oladayo Amao, at the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force, Abuja on Thursday.
The FFS boss said the agreement was aimed at deploying aerial aircraft and other aerial resources to combat major fire outbreaks .
These aircrafts, according to him, are to be used in aerial command and control roles in fighting major fires, providing tactical coordination with commanders on the ground and other aircraft in the sky.
He explained that the move is to undo the obstacles of lack of access and proximity to affected areas , adding that it is also dangerous for firefighters to enter into some burning buildings to fight fire.
The acting CGF expressed worry about the frequent fire disasters recorded in the country , which he said was affecting the nation’s economy negatively.
He said , he is desirous of justifying the taxpayer’s funds that are annually allocated for firefighting by the federal government.
Karebo vowed not to only meet his obligations but to exceed expectations while at the helm of affairs at the Fire Service.
He promised to ensure that highly mobile aircraft are positioned around the country to respond to all manner of fires, protect communities, public and commercial buildings as well as to support firefighters on the ground.
He said, “So it is not surprising that the Federal Fire Service is seeking to introduce new technologies against a threat that will only get worse due to climate change.
Karebo explained that under ideal conditions aircraft can slow a fire enough to allow ground based firefighters an opportunity to contain sections of the fire’s edge by constructing a fireline.
The acting CG, however, noted that wrong winds or dense smoke can also make it impossible for aircraft to operate safely or effectively.
On his part, the Chief of Air Staff promised to provide the Fire Service with all the necessary support to ensure the safety of Nigerian.
Amoa revealed that the Nigerian Air force have adequate Aircrafts on ground.
He stressed the need for an outright intensive training for both agencies as it relates to aerial fire fighting to boost effectiveness and an impressive result.
He said, “As climate change heats up , alongside the possibility of man-made fire outbreaks, preparing ourselves for the fire storms that are sure to come is a step in the right direction.
“To this effect, a committee has been set up to commence the processes of collaboration.”
