LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)– Rising temperatures across Nigeria have prompted the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to alert citizens about the increased risk of fire outbreaks and heat-related health challenges, emphasizing preventive measures to safeguard lives and property.
The advisory issued on March 10, comes amid confirmed heatwave conditions reported by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which predicts persistent high temperatures in many regions.
This time, states including Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi, Cross River, and the Federal Capital Territory, with northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Sokoto should expect temperatures that exceeds 40°C.
“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 agency stated on Saturday, advising citizens to be on high alert.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, urged households, businesses, and public institutions to exercise extreme caution when handling electrical appliances, gas cylinders, and other combustible materials, noting that extreme heat can make these items more vulnerable to ignition.
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“She emphasized 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 added.
Also, Umar stressed the importance of safeguarding one’s health during the heatwave. Citizens are advised to stay hydrated, limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and pay close attention to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
“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 agency said.
The agency called on residents to follow daily weather forecasts and safety advisories issued by NiMet and emergency management agencies, while promptly reporting any fire outbreaks or emergencies to authorities. Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to public awareness and proactive disaster risk reduction in line with federal efforts to protect lives, property, and the environment.
Highlighting the extreme heatwave, NEMA’s guidance serves as a timely reminder for citizens to prepare for the threats of fire hazards and heat-related illnesses, emphasizing prevention as the most effective safeguard amid intensifying weather conditions.
