As Easter festivities kick into high gear, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Services (FFS), is sounding the alarm on crucial safety issues. With many families gearing up for beach outings and outdoor gatherings, it’s vital to keep water safety and barbecue practices at the forefront of our celebrations.
In a heartfelt message, Jaji reminded everyone to stay vigilant around water bodies, including swimming pools, as Easter is a time for fun, but safety must come first. He specifically warned against careless barbecue practices that could turn festive gatherings into disaster scenes. For the young and spirited, he emphasized caution in windy conditions or near dry vegetation to prevent any fires from sparking out of control.
“Enjoying the warmth of Easter is all about family and friends, but let’s remember to keep fire safety in our thoughts during these joyous celebrations,” Jaji stated. As people flock to pools, lakes, and beaches, he urged swimmers to stick to designated safe areas and be aware of the potential hazards posed by cold water and strong currents.
“Even on the sunniest days, remember that the water can be deceptively cold, leading to Cold Water Shock, which can be dangerous. Strong currents can pull even the best swimmers under, so we’re urging everyone to think twice before taking a dip in open waters—those rivers and lakes may look inviting, but safety must prevail,” he advised.
And let’s not forget our kitchens, where delicious Easter treats await! Jaji stressed the importance of never leaving cooking unattended, even for a moment. If you need to step away, turn off the heat or remove pans from the stove. Keep flammable items like oven mitts and tea towels well away from hot surfaces.
In addition to sharing safety tips, Jaji called for harmony and national unity, particularly in light of the frequent fire outbreaks linked to tanker incidents. He assured the public that the FFS is dedicated to improving response times during emergencies, with partnerships with key stakeholders yielding significant results.
This Easter, let’s celebrate in joy and safety—keeping our loved ones safe while making memorable moments together!
