By Nasratu Kargbo
Reported fire cases in Sierra Leone increased by 50% in 2021, according to the Chief Fire Officer Nazir Ahmad Kamanda Bongay, doubling the 2020 figures.
Speaking to Politico on Tuesday 19th January 2022, Bongay explained that in the year 2021 the country recorded more than one thousand fire cases, as against some five hundred reported incidents for 2020.
Highlighting areas that were mostly affected, the Chief Fire Officer said more than 60% of the fire cases happened within the Freetown municipality, whilst 40% occurred in other parts of the country.
On the main causes for the fire outbreaks, Bongay mentioned that during the days when electricity was scarce, candles, coal pots amongst others were what led to outbreaks. He explained that nowadays most of the fire outbreaks are electricity related, noting especially the use of perishable cables, poor connection and overloaded circuit. Bongay also highlighted storage of fuel, and gas explosion as the other causes for fire accidents nowadays.
When asked about their level of preparedness this time when fire outbreaks normally occur during the dry season, Bongay explained that they are ready as an institution and that they have fire engines in different parts of the country such as Bo, Kenema, Makeni. He revealed that they are expecting more fire engines in the country, saying they have done all the necessary procedures.
Highlighting some of the challenges they face as an institution, the Chief Fire Officer said because most of the fires occur in Freetown, their efforts to put them out are hampered by traffic issues, accessibility to some affected communities and lack of requisite repairing spare parts for their vehicles. He admitted that they have been able to barely cope to the challenges, and would continue.
Bongay explained that the country is getting hotter, due to the fact that the country is closer to the equator “as the place gets hotter it is easier for a little fire to spread“. He advised all Sierra Leoneans to be careful when handling things that could cause fire.
Copyright © 2022 Politico (21/01/22)
