By Joy Onu, Abuja
As the saying goes, charity begins at home. In line with this principle, the Federal Ministry of Interior has conducted a fire safety training and drill for its staff as part of efforts to strengthen workplace safety and emergency preparedness, and enhance their ability to prevent and respond effectively to fire incidents.
According to a press release by Mary Ali, Head, Press and Public Relations for the Ministry of Interior, the exercise combined classroom instruction with practical demonstrations and was organised in collaboration with professional fire safety officers and emergency response personnel, giving staff hands-on experience with basic firefighting techniques and safety procedures.
Opening the session, the Director of the Joint Services Department, Adaji Asmau, said the initiative was designed to improve awareness and ensure that staff are better prepared to deal with fire-related emergencies within the workplace.
She explained that proper knowledge and readiness can significantly reduce the risks associated with fire outbreaks, stressing that preparedness remains one of the most effective ways to safeguard lives and property.
Asmau further noted that many deaths recorded during fire incidents are often linked not directly to flames but to smoke inhalation, panic, and poor response to emergencies. She therefore urged staff members to take the training seriously and make practical use of the lessons learned.
Participants were guided through the key stages of fire management, including preventive actions before a fire outbreak, safety measures to observe during an incident, and procedures to follow after the situation has been brought under control.
The training also focused on common causes of fire outbreaks, the importance of early detection and prompt reporting, as well as the correct use of firefighting equipment in containing small fires before they spread.
During the practical segment of the programme, staff observed demonstrations and participated in drills designed to simulate emergency situations, including how to handle basic firefighting tools safely.
Officials of the Ministry of Interior said the exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry to promote safety consciousness, strengthen risk management practices, and improve emergency response capacity across its departments and agencies.
Staff members were also encouraged to extend the knowledge gained beyond the workplace by promoting fire safety awareness in their homes and communities.
