Lack of fire fighting equipment impeding quick response – Osun residents

Residents of Osun State have identified lack of equipment as a major impediment to quick response and effectiveness of the fire service in the state.

According to the Osun State Fire Service, property worth over N1bn were lost to fire incidents in the state in 2021 alone, while it saved property worth N47bn during the same period.

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Apart from combating and fighting fire, other functions of firemen include rescuing people from traffic accidents and dealing with other emergencies such as flood.

However, firemen are often at the receiving end; incurring the wrath of mobs whenever fire wreaks havoc, with the mobs claiming “slow response” on the part of the firemen.

A resident, Madam Bintu Adelakun, who witnessed a fire incident at Oke-Popo in Osogbo, said firemen came to the scene immediately they were called but that they went back to get water.

She said, “Before they brought the water the fire had consumed property worth millions of naira.”

Another resident, Hon Adeoye Adelakun, while speaking on the effort of firefighters, lauded them for ensuring that fires did not spread to other buildings.

Mr Segun Adegoke, a journalist who shared his experience, said the attitude of people trying to take pictures and record videos during fire incidents could constitute hindrance to firemen while carrying out their duty.

The Director, Osun State Fire Service, Mr Michael Ogundipe, urged residents to call the service immediately a fire breaks out and assured that firemen were always ready to do their job.

He said, “People will not call us on time when there is fire incident. They will call when it is beyond their control. When we get there, they will blame us for not coming on time. This may lead to mob attack on our men and equipment. People should call the fire service on time when there is fire incident.”