The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has alerted Nigerians to a heightened risk of fire outbreaks and heat-related illnesses as temperatures rise across several parts of the country.
The warning was issued on Saturday in a statement by NEMA Head of Press and Public Relations, Manzo Ezekiel, on behalf of the Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar.
According to the agency, the current heatwave conditions could increase the likelihood of fire incidents and pose health threats to residents, prompting a call for precautionary 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.
NEMA explained that the high temperatures being recorded in many areas had also been confirmed in forecasts released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
“The agency noted that the elevated temperatures being experienced in many parts of the country have been confirmed in recent forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, which indicates the likelihood of persistent heat conditions during this period,” the statement added.
Mrs. Umar urged citizens to be careful when handling materials that could easily ignite, especially during periods of intense heat.
“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.
She also advised proper storage of flammable substances and discouraged practices that could trigger fires.
“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 chief encouraged Nigerians to take steps to guard against heat-related health issues.
“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 further called on residents to follow weather updates and safety advisories from relevant agencies, including NiMet, and to promptly report any emergency or fire outbreak to appropriate authorities.
The director-general reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting disaster awareness and strengthening preventive measures in line with the federal government’s efforts to protect lives and property.
The advisory follows a recent warning by Nigerian Meteorological Agency that extreme heat stress could affect millions of Nigerians.
In an advisory released on March 10, the agency said temperatures could exceed 40°C in several states, with humidity worsening discomfort and raising the risk of heat-related illnesses.
States expected to experience the harshest conditions include Kebbi State, Niger State, Kwara State, Oyo State, Kogi State, Nasarawa State, Anambra State, Abia State, Ebonyi State and Cross River State, as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
Other states placed on high alert include Taraba State, Adamawa State, Plateau State, Kaduna State, Zamfara State and Sokoto State.
