The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has successfully saved properties worth N8.23 billion over the past eight months, as reported by the agency amid increasing fire incidents. Between January and August 2024, the fire service recorded 271 fire emergencies and successfully rescued 11 lives in the FCT.

Mr. Adebayo Amiola, the acting director of the fire service, shared these details during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday. He highlighted that properties valued at N1.96 billion were lost during this same period and urged residents to adopt fire prevention strategies, especially in markets, to minimize fire outbreaks.

Amiola emphasized the new regulations prohibiting sleeping in markets across the FCT, which are backed by the ministry. He noted that market managers have been instructed to ensure traders leave their stalls after trading hours.

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“Managers of various markets must ensure access roads remain clear, free from goods display or makeshift shops,” he said. He also called on motorists to yield the right of way to fire trucks responding to emergencies, reinforcing the service’s dedication to prompt action during fire outbreaks.

Additionally, the fire service is taking proactive steps for fire safety education. Amiola announced that the FCT Fire Service has begun educating schoolchildren about fire management, encouraging them to share their knowledge with peers.

In line with this effort, a Fire Safety Week is scheduled from October 7 to 11, during which the service will conduct fire prevention and safety activities throughout the FCT.

“We will visit all areas of the FCT and different Area Councils as part of our annual dry season awareness campaign, informing residents about measures to prevent fires in homes and businesses,” he added.

In a move to enhance fire prevention, the FCT Administration revealed plans to launch a Fire Emergency Monitoring Gateway on September 29, aimed at curbing fire outbreaks, particularly as the harmattan season approaches. The region has experienced a concerning surge in fire incidents, particularly in open markets, which have caused significant damage and loss of livelihoods. Recently, about 40 shops were destroyed by fire at the Kaura Modern Market in Abuja.