Heatwave: NEMA warns of fire disasters, health risks

The National Emergency Management Agency has cautioned Nigerians about the increased risk of fire outbreaks and heat-related health challenges following the rising temperatures being experienced across parts of the country.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the agency’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Manzo Ezekiel, on behalf of the Director-General, Zubaida Umar.

According to the agency, the prevailing heatwave conditions have heightened the likelihood of fire incidents and health complications, urging citizens to take preventive measures.

“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 statement said.

She urged households, business operators and public institutions to pay close attention to the safe use of electrical appliances, gas cylinders and other combustible materials, noting that excessive heat can increase the vulnerability of such items to ignition,” the statement said.

Umar also stressed the need for proper storage of flammable substances and warned against activities that could increase the risk of fire outbreaks.

She emphasised 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 noted.

Beyond fire safety, the NEMA boss advised Nigerians to take precautionary steps to protect themselves from heat-related health challenges.

“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 statement said.

She also urged residents to remain attentive to weather forecasts and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities, particularly the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and emergency management agencies, while encouraging communities to promptly report any fire outbreak or emergency situation to the appropriate response agencies.

The Director-General reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to sustained public awareness and proactive disaster risk reduction in line with the Federal Government’s efforts to safeguard lives, property and the environment.

The advisory comes days after the Nigerian Meteorological Agency warned about extreme heat stress affecting millions of citizens across the country.

In an advisory issued on Tuesday, March 10, NiMet said temperatures were expected to rise above 40°C in several states, with humidity levels worsening the discomfort and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

States expected to experience the most severe conditions include Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi and Cross River states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.

Northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and Sokoto are also on high alert, according to the agency.