FCTA Introduces New Fire Fighting Technology In Abuja

By: Wisdom Acka

Authorities of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), have introduced one of the latest fire fighting systems in Abuja.

Coordinator, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, Felix Obuah, disclosed this, while flagging off this year’s fire prevention campaign in Wuse Market on Thursday.

Obuah, who attributed the feat to support from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, stated that the technology would help prevent frequent incidents of fire outbreaks; adding that, with time, it would be extended to other markets and public places.

After performing a demostration of the Integrated Fire Emergency Monitoring Technology, the Coordinator explained that the system involves installation of a smoke-detecting device inside a building, which triggers alarm on emission of smoke, thus sending signals to the FCT Fire Service headquarters in Asokoro for prompt action.

According to him, the highly sensitive fire alert system also works with an SOS machine fixed outside a building and could be simply pressed to alert the Service during outbreaks.

Obuah urged traders in the markets and the public to imbibe fire safety measures by equipping their shops with fire extinguishers; avoiding overloading of electrical appliances and keeping pathways clear for emergency exits.

On his part, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abuja Markets Management Limited (AMML), Nsor Ojiji, disclosed that the Management was stepping up collaborations with relevant agencies to achieve zero fire incidents in FCT markets.

The MD, who also represented the Group Managing Director, Abuja Investments Company Limited, Amb. Maureen Tamuno, stated that more needed to be done, even as he expressed appreciation to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Amb. Tamuno for their support in keeping the markets safe from fire incidents.

Ojiji revealed that his organization has continued to take necessary measures, including embracing of new technologies in fire prevention to keep the markets safe.

Controller, FCT Fire Service, Adebayo Zacchaeus, explained that the exercise was a yearly proactive measure aimed at preventing fire outbreaks in FCT markets.

The Controller stressed that the effect of dry season and Climate Change made markets vulnerable hence the imperative for all to take responsibility in keeping our environment safe.

Adebayo also assured of the Service’s committment to prioritising fire prevention; calling on the traders and public to do same.

He charged them to always include fire safety measures in their building plans, avoid using of substandard building materials, especially electrical wires, and stop sleeping in the market.