As Christians across the country celebrate the Easter season, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, has issued an urgent advisory on water safety and the dangers associated with improper barbecue practices.
In a personally signed statement, Engr. Jaji emphasized the need for vigilance, particularly as many families are expected to gather near beaches, swimming pools, and other water bodies. He warned that unsafe barbecue practices, especially in areas prone to high winds or dry vegetation, could easily lead to fires or other accidents.
“With Easter being a time for family fun, it’s equally important to remain vigilant and prioritize fire safety throughout the celebrations,” the Controller General stated.
He urged families, particularly enthusiastic youths, to avoid lighting barbecues in unsafe areas and reminded the public to exercise caution when cooking both indoors and outdoors. “Never leave cooking unattended. If you must step away, even briefly, turn off the heat or remove pans from the cooker. Keep flammable materials like tea towels, oven mitts, and electrical cables away from hot surfaces.”
Addressing water safety, Engr. Jaji highlighted the risks associated with swimming in open water. “Even on warm, sunny days, cold water can trigger Cold Water Shock, severely impairing breathing and movement. Strong currents can also endanger even experienced swimmers,” he said. “We strongly advise against swimming in open water such as rivers and lakes, no matter how inviting they appear.”
In the event of an accidental fall into water, the public is encouraged to remain calm and float on their backs to increase chances of rescue.
While congratulating Christians on the Easter celebration, the FFS boss also used the opportunity to appeal for peace, harmony, and national unity among citizens.
Commenting on the frequent fire outbreaks caused by tanker accidents, Engr. Jaji reiterated the Service’s commitment to swift response and continuous improvement in emergency operations. He noted that ongoing collaborations with key stakeholders are already yielding positive results in enhancing disaster response capabilities.
