Properties valued at N3.9 billion were reportedly destroyed by fire in Osun within the first half of the year, an official record of the state Fire Service said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the record, which was obtained on Monday, also revealed that the service recorded 55 fire outbreaks during the first six months under review.
It was further recorded that 15 cases, being the highest on the data, were recorded in January and February, respectively.
The record also showed that property worth N130.3 billion was salvaged by the service.
According to the record, one life was lost, while one false fire call was received during the period.
The Public Relations Officer of the organisation, Mr Ibrahim Adekunle, told NAN in an interview that most fire outbreaks were as a result of “human errors and negligence”.
Adekune advised residents to be more careful about how they handle flammable items and materials that could cause or lead to fire.
He said that the service, however, carries out periodic public engagements and enlightenment programmes on ways to prevent or manage fire.
“We go to markets, worship centres, corporate organisations and public establishments to enlighten the people on the need to be cautious with fire and what to do in case of outbreaks,” he said.
Adekunle also said that the operations of the organisation had been sufficiently enhanced by the State Government.
He said that the government procured more fire trucks for the organisation to aid its service delivery.
“We appreciate Gov. Ademola Adeleke for buying seven new fire trucks and one water tanker for us.
“Five of the trucks were bought this year, and they have all been very helpful in combating fire,” he said.
He, however, urged residents to be proactive always and not to delay in calling the service anytime there was an outbreak of fire.
He also admonished them to be extra careful when handling fire, especially in the kitchen, adding that they should always switch off and unplug electrical appliances when not in use.
