Heatwave raises fire, health risks

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has warned Nigerians about a heightened risk of fire outbreaks and heat-related health challenges following the rising temperatures being recorded across several parts of the country.

The caution 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 increased the likelihood of fire incidents and health complications, urging citizens to adopt preventive safety 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 currently being experienced in many areas have also been confirmed in recent forecasts 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.

Umar therefore advised Nigerians to exercise caution in the handling and use of materials that could easily trigger fire outbreaks, especially under extreme heat conditions.

“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 emphasised the importance of properly storing flammable substances and avoiding activities that could heighten 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 urged Nigerians to take precautionary steps to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.

“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.

Residents were also encouraged to monitor weather forecasts and safety advisories issued by relevant authorities, particularly NiMet and emergency management agencies, and to promptly report any fire outbreak or emergency situation to the appropriate response bodies.

Umar reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to sustained public awareness and proactive disaster risk reduction in line with the Federal Government’s efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.

The advisory comes days after NiMet warned about extreme heat stress affecting millions of Nigerians.

In an advisory issued on March 10, the agency said temperatures could exceed 40°C in several states, with high humidity levels expected to worsen discomfort and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

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

NiMet also placed northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and Sokoto on high alert due to the extreme weather conditions.