From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Fire Service, has called on residents to prioritise fire safety as the festive season approaches, emphasising the need for vigilance to prevent avoidable tragedies.
The call came after a fire outbreak recently at Mandate Housing Estate, Ilorin.
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The incident, which nearly destroyed a three-bedroom flat, was reportedly caused by a 9-year-old child playing with matches. The child accidentally set a mattress ablaze, leading to a fire that could have escalated further without timely intervention.
In a statement issued by PFO Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity for the Fire Service, parents and guardians were urged to keep flammable materials out of children’s reach and educate them on fire hazards.
“The festive season is a time of joy, but it is also a period that requires heightened vigilance,” the statement noted.
“Parents must ensure children are adequately supervised, especially during holidays when they spend more time at home.”
The agency also warned against the use of firecrackers, commonly known as “bangers,” recounting a tragic incident from previous years, were a young boy hiding a lit firecracker under a bed inadvertently caused a fire that destroyed his family’s home while they were out shopping.
“This devastating incident underscores the importance of educating children on fire safety and the risks associated with firecrackers. Let us all work together to prevent such tragedies this festive season,” Adekunle stressed.
The Fire Service further encouraged residents to adopt proactive fire safety measures and promptly report emergencies to the appropriate authorities to mitigate losses during the festivities.
