The Federal Capital Territory Fire Service says the agency recorded 271 incidents and saved 11 lives in the FCT from January to August 2024.
The service’s acting director, Mr Adebayo Amiola, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the agency’s activities in Abuja on Thursday.
Amiola added that the service also saved N8.23bn from the fire incidents, while properties worth N1.96bn were lost within the period.
He advised residents to be cautious by taking fire-preventive measures, especially in markets, to reduce the incidents of fire outbreaks in the territory.
He said that sleeping in the market has been banned in all markets in the FCT, adding that the fire service has gotten ministerial backing to seal non-compliant markets and plazas.
“All the managers of markets have been directed to stop traders from sleeping in the markets. They are expected to go home immediately at the close of trading activities,” he said.
He also said that managers of various markets have been instructed to ensure that no access roads to markets were blocked, either by displaying goods on access roads or erecting makeshift shops.
The acting director also urged motorists to concede the right of way to fire trucks responding to emergencies in the territory.
He reiterated the service’s commitment to ensuring optimal response to fire outbreaks and emergencies.
He commended the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, for supporting the fire service to ensure the safety of lives and property within the territory.