NEMA Raises Alarm Over Fire Outbreaks Over Heatwave in Nigeria

NEMA Raises Alarm Over Fire Outbreaks Over Heatwave in Nigeria
Agency urges caution in handling electrical appliances, gas cylinders and flammable materials.
NiMet forecasts temperatures above 40°C in several states across Nigeria.

The National Emergency Management Agency has warned Nigerians about the increased risk of fire outbreaks and heat related health challenges as temperatures continue to rise across several parts of the country.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the warning was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the agency’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Manzo Ezekiel, on behalf of the Director General, Mrs Zubaida Umar.

According to the agency, the current heatwave conditions have increased the likelihood of fire incidents and health complications, urging citizens to take preventive measures.

“Following the recent rise in daily temperatures and heatwave conditions across parts of the country, the National Emergency Management Agency cautions on the heightened risk of fire disasters and related health challenges that may arise from the prevailing weather situation,” the statement said.

NEMA noted that the elevated temperatures currently being experienced in many parts of the country had also been confirmed by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency in its recent forecasts.

“The agency noted that the elevated temperatures being experienced in many parts of the country have been confirmed in recent forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, which indicates the likelihood of persistent heat conditions during this period,” the statement added.

The Director General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, advised Nigerians to exercise caution when handling materials that could easily trigger fire outbreaks, particularly during extreme heat conditions.

“She urged households, business operators and public institutions to pay close attention to the safe use of electrical appliances, gas cylinders and other combustible materials, noting that excessive heat can increase the vulnerability of such items to ignition,” the statement said.

Umar also stressed the need for proper storage of flammable substances and warned against activities that could increase the risk of fire incidents.

“She emphasised the need for proper storage of flammable substances, avoidance of bush burning and ensuring that electrical connections are properly maintained to reduce the risk of fire incidents,” the statement noted.

The NEMA boss further advised Nigerians to protect themselves from heat related health problems.

“In addition to fire safety, the DG NEMA advised citizens to take preventive measures against heat related health challenges by staying well hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and paying special attention to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and persons with underlying health conditions,” the statement said.

She also urged residents to follow weather updates and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities, including the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, and to promptly report any fire outbreak or emergency to appropriate response agencies.

Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to sustained public awareness and proactive disaster risk reduction in line with the Federal Government’s efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.

The advisory followed an earlier warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency on extreme heat stress expected to affect millions of Nigerians.

In an advisory issued on Tuesday, March 10, the agency said temperatures could rise above 40°C in several states, with humidity likely to worsen discomfort and increase the risk of heat related illnesses.

States expected to face the most severe conditions include Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi and Cross River, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

Northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and Sokoto were also placed on high alert.