Kwara State warns residents against open burning and plans mandatory fire extinguishers in homes and regulated premises to enhance fire safety

The Kwara State Government has cautioned residents to remain vigilant against fire outbreaks and announced plans to make fire extinguishers mandatory in all regulated premises and residential buildings.

Also read: Ibadan fire destroys 14 shops in Ogundipe Market

The warning follows recent fire incidents across the state.

The statement was issued on Friday by Jide Aina, General Manager of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency, who described the incidents as preventable with compliance to existing safety regulations.

Aina noted that open burning of refuse and careless handling of fire significantly contribute to environmental degradation, air pollution, health hazards, and destruction of property.

“Most fire disasters are avoidable if residents and business operators adhere strictly to safety guidelines and take necessary precautionary measures,” Aina said.

He urged the public to embrace environmentally friendly waste disposal and to maintain functional fire extinguishers, which can prevent minor fires from escalating.

KWEPA is finalising plans to enforce the requirement for fire extinguishers in regulated premises and residential buildings, warning that defaulters will face sanctions under existing environmental and safety laws.

Residents are encouraged to report fire hazards promptly and avoid practices that endanger lives, property, and the environment.

The warning follows several recent fire incidents, including one in Irewolede, Ilorin, where a 73-year-old man, Pastor Awolola, reportedly died after setting fire to undergrowth on his farmland.

Another fire destroyed property worth millions of naira at Owode Market in Offa, while a separate outbreak occurred at the Olohunkushe axis of the town.

Also read: Ajayi Crowther university radio studio destroyed in costly fire

Officials stressed that prevention, public awareness, and adherence to regulations are key to reducing fire-related losses and protecting lives across Kwara State.