By Our Reporter
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has launched a nationwide fire sensitization campaign to prevent cases of fire outbreaks during harmattan season.
The agency also said it would engage tanker drivers, market associations, local businesses, and other stakeholders following the rising cases of fire outbreaks.
For tanker drivers, NEMA said they will receive essential training on fire safety, including preventive practices and emergency response techniques.
NEMA said the initiative is targeted at reducing the risk of fire outbreaks during the harmattan season by engaging key stakeholders and empowering communities with preventive measures and response strategies.
The campaign, implemented through NEMA’s Zonal Territorial and Operations Offices, is conducted in collaboration with the Federal and State Fire Services.
The agency stated that the key component of the initiative is the training of Emergency Management Volunteers (EMVs) at the grassroots level.
According to NEMA, the volunteers will be equipped with practical knowledge and skills to prevent and manage fire emergencies, addressing the increasing prevalence of fire incidents during the dry harmattan period.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, highlighted the urgency of proactive measures during the harmattan season, which often poses heightened fire risks.
She emphasized that the campaign aims to promote a culture of disaster prevention to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.
Umar said the nationwide sensitization effort is a reflection of the commitment by NEMA to empower communities and work collaboratively with critical stakeholders such as tanker drivers, market leaders, and grassroots volunteers.
The DG NEMA also underscored the importance of collective responsibility in adhering to disaster warnings, preparations, and response mechanisms to mitigate the loss of lives and property.
She said the initiative by NEMA reaffirms its dedication to building resilient communities through prevention, training, and collaborative action.