2021: Fire service saves eight persons, N3.8bn property in Adamawa

Eight persons were rescued and property worth N3.8bn saved in 64 fire incidents in Adamawa State, in 2021 by the Federal Fire Services.

Its Yola Zonal Commander, Mr Philip Odu explained that from January 2021 to date, the command has attended to 64 fire outbreak calls, carried out 11 rescue operations, during which eight lives were saved, while three lives were lost.

He added, “Also, in the period under review, property worth ₦ 3.87 billion was saved, while property worth ₦294.60 million was lost to fire disasters.”

He identified lack of public cooperation as a major challenge affecting the command’s services, especially during its operations.

Mr Philip Odu lamented that on many occasions, their officers were attacked and equipment destroyed by unruly residents.

He stated that following the incessant attacks on their officers while on duty by unscrupulous elements, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have attached some Arms Squad personnel to support and protect them whenever they were going for rescue and fire outbreak operations.

He also listed the obsolete Fire Service Act of 1963, none compliance with fire safety code by residents and lack of attention by state governments to the needs and welfare of fire service, as some of the challenges impeding its operations.

He explained that there was a cordial and impressive working relationship with other sister agencies in carrying out their official assignments.

The Zonal Commander enjoined the general public to desist from false distress calls, assuring that the Command would not take it lightly with any person or group of persons found wanting in that regards.