The Federal Fire Service (FFS)
Fire safety professionals and the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) have called on Nigerians to be more conscious of the causes of fire outbreaks, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy against fire disasters.
The appeal was made during a fire safety sensitisation campaign organised by NAS in partnership with the Lagos State Command of the Federal Fire Service at Mile 2 Estate in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The organisers noted that while some fire incidents occur accidentally, many are caused by negligence, ignorance and failure to observe basic safety precautions.
Delivering a lecture on the causes and prevention of fire outbreaks in homes, the Operations Officer of Festac Fire Station, Mr. Oghene Michael, explained that fires are classified according to the nature of combustible materials involved and therefore require different methods of control and extinguishing.
He identified cooking gas, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), furniture, clothing, curtains and rugs among common combustible and flammable materials found in homes, warning that such materials can ignite easily under certain conditions.
According to him, substances in gaseous form are particularly dangerous because of their low ignition thresholds and ability to spread rapidly.
“Anything with a high flashpoint has a lower risk of ignition when exposed to heat. It is not the material itself that burns, but the vapour it produces. That is why substances in a gaseous state are generally more dangerous than those in liquid or solid forms,” he said.
Michael advised residents to identify and manage potential ignition sources, including matchsticks, lighters, faulty electrical connections, defective appliances and excessive heat.
As part of preventive measures, he urged parents to keep matches and lighters away from children, regularly inspect cooking gas cylinders and hoses, and ensure that kitchens and electrical installations are properly maintained.
He also encouraged good housekeeping practices, including the disposal of unused furniture, electrical appliances and other combustible materials that may obstruct escape routes during emergencies.
In the event of a fire outbreak, he advised occupants to evacuate immediately and contact the nearest fire service station without delay.
He cautioned against using water to extinguish fires involving petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, kerosene and cooking oil, noting that water could worsen such fires by spreading the burning substance.
Similarly, he warned against using water on electrical fires without first disconnecting the power source to avoid electrocution.
Michael explained that Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) fire extinguishers are best suited for flammable liquid and electrical fires, particularly in kitchens and locations containing sensitive electronic equipment, as they leave no residue after use.
He added that Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) extinguishers are effective against fires involving solid materials, flammable liquids and gases, making them suitable for homes, garages and other multi-risk environments.
The fire safety session also featured a practical demonstration by personnel of the Federal Fire Service, including Festac Station Commander, Oyibode Idowu; Operations Officer, Oghene Michael; and Drill Officer, Adebayo Sodiku, who simulated fire outbreak and suppression procedures for residents.
Earlier, the Head of NAS Festac Chapter (Saratoga Deck), Mr. Emeka Achonu, said the sensitisation programme formed part of the association’s quarterly community outreach activities for 2026.
He explained that NAS chapters worldwide regularly organise free advocacy programmes, health interventions and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at improving the well-being of communities and promoting human dignity.
As part of the initiative, the association donated firefighting equipment to the Mile 2 Estate community to strengthen local emergency response capacity.