95 percent of Lagos fire outbreaks caused by human actions – Govt
Lagos Fire Chief Reports Human Actions Behind 95% of Fires
LAGOS — Margaret Adeseye, the Controller-General of the Lagos Fire and Rescue Service, announced that investigations indicate approximately 95 percent of fire outbreaks in Lagos result from unsafe human behaviors. These incidents are largely attributed to inadequate public awareness and poor safety practices.
Adeseye made this statement on Saturday during a Safety Walk and the inauguration of the Lagos State Fire Marshals Club at the State Secretariat in Alausa. The event included a public sensitization march from Alausa to the Ikeja Under Bridge along Awolowo Way, responding to rising concerns about fire incidents, particularly in markets and workplaces across the state.
The newly established Fire Marshals initiative aims to mitigate fire outbreaks through continuous awareness campaigns, training, and the mobilization of community-based volunteers to act as first responders. Adeseye explained that these marshals would receive basic fire safety education to assist in preventing incidents and managing emergencies prior to the arrival of professional firefighters.
“This collaboration with first responders and the Lagos State Fire Service aligns with the vision of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration for a safer Lagos,” Adeseye said. “The government and the leadership of the Fire and Rescue Service are committed to reducing fire outbreaks. Awareness and knowledge remain critical in preventing fires, and this initiative is structured to provide that knowledge to residents.”
Adeseye emphasized the program’s intent to enable residents to actively support the Lagos State Fire Service. The ultimate goal is to transform community members into partners in promoting fire safety.
Among the newly inducted fire marshals is Mr. Ajao Sulaimon, a community leader who cited the increasing number of fire incidents in Lagos as his motivation for joining the initiative. “Most of these fires happen because people lack adequate knowledge about fire prevention. Being part of the Fire Marshals Club will help me understand fire management better and enable me to assist in controlling incidents before firefighters arrive,” he said.
Another marshal, Mr. Abube John, echoed these concerns and expressed his commitment to the cause. “Fire incidents have become a serious challenge, and many residents have little or no knowledge of firefighting or prevention. I joined the Fire Marshals Club as my contribution to society, believing it is one way I can help improve safety and protect lives and property in Lagos,” he remarked.
