Nigeria takes action: What NEMA’s new fire and flood strategy means for 2025

by Featured NewsFloodingSafety

Fire prevention campaign targets Lagos tanker drivers

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has launched a public safety initiative to address tanker-related fire risks in Lagos State, Nigeria.

According to NEMA, the Lagos Operations Office conducted a public sensitisation campaign in multiple locations across the state, targeting tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

The campaign began at OPIC, a known rest stop for tanker operators, where NEMA officials and Emergency Management Volunteers from the National Youth Service Corps distributed educational materials and delivered in-person safety briefings.

The agency stated that sessions focused on tanker explosion risks, fire safety precautions, and the need for individual responsibility in preventing incidents.

Practical guidance was provided to drivers, including advice on pre-departure inspections, fuel line checks, avoiding overfilling, routine vehicle maintenance, and participation in regular training programmes.

NEMA also advised members of the public to avoid fuel collection at accident sites and to remain at a safe distance until emergency responders arrive.

Industry engagement on disaster risk reduction

The awareness campaign continued with a visit to the NUPENG office at NNPC Ejigbo.

NEMA reported that the outreach included briefings with union members on road safety, fire prevention, and community-level risk reduction strategies.

According to the agency, the emphasis was placed on a shared approach to reducing the frequency and severity of tanker-related emergencies.

NUPENG members were said to have welcomed the engagement and expressed support for further dissemination of fire safety messages within their networks.

The campaign forms part of wider public education efforts being undertaken by NEMA to reduce fire incidents and improve community safety in Lagos and surrounding areas.

National flood response centre inaugurated in Abuja

Separately, NEMA has announced the official opening of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) to coordinate flood response measures across Nigeria.

The agency said the NEOC was inaugurated by NEMA Director General Zubaida Umar, represented by Dr Onimode Abdullahi Bandele, Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting.

According to NEMA, the centre will serve as a central coordination hub linking federal and sub-national entities, enabling more effective disaster response planning and operational support.

The NEOC is intended to provide a central platform for real-time flood monitoring, data collection, information sharing, and deployment of response resources.

NEMA reported that the centre’s establishment reflects its preparedness efforts ahead of the anticipated 2025 flood season.

The centre became operational immediately following its launch.

Real-time data platform to support 2025 flood response

During the NEOC staff inauguration, Zubaida Umar called for professionalism and diligence among personnel.

The agency stated that she emphasised the importance of continuous data updates and maintaining a reliable flood information dashboard.

According to NEMA, the dashboard will be used to support timely decision-making and guide response strategies during emergencies.

The agency explained that the NEOC will track flood developments across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

It said the platform would help coordinate multiple agencies involved in emergency preparedness and recovery.

Dr Bandele noted that the NEOC’s data-driven approach is central to NEMA’s strategy for the current year’s flood management.

NEMA outlines integrated safety strategy

NEMA stated that the combination of public education and data coordination reflects a multi-level approach to disaster preparedness.

By addressing both fire and flood risks, the agency said it aims to reduce casualties and infrastructure loss during emergencies.

According to NEMA, these initiatives represent a shift towards proactive safety engagement in high-risk regions.

The agency reiterated its call for public cooperation, particularly among road users and communities in flood-prone areas.

NEMA added that it will continue working with state agencies, unions, and civil society partners to improve emergency readiness nationwide.

Nigeria: NEMA launches fire safety drive and opens national disaster operations centre: Summary

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) launched a fire safety awareness campaign in Lagos State.

The campaign targeted tanker drivers and at-risk communities.

NEMA conducted outreach at OPIC and NUPENG’s NNPC Ejigbo office.

Drivers received fire safety advice, including vehicle checks and training.

The public was advised to avoid fuel scooping and wait for responders.

NUPENG committed to helping spread the campaign’s message.

Separately, NEMA opened the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Abuja.

The NEOC will coordinate 2025 flood response across all 36 states and the FCT.

It provides real-time monitoring, data management, and resource deployment.

Director General Zubaida Umar urged staff to maintain an accurate flood dashboard.

The NEOC began operations immediately after the inauguration.

NEMA stated these actions reflect a national shift to proactive risk reduction.

Hyderabad fire tragedy near Charminar sparks investigation

by Featured News

Hyderabad building fire leaves 17 dead near Charminar

Media reports have stated that 17 people died following a fire at a multi-storey building near Charminar in Hyderabad, India, on the morning of 18 May 2025.

The fire began at a jewellery shop on the ground floor of a property in Gulzar Houz and spread quickly through the residential floors above.

According to fire officials, the victims primarily died due to asphyxiation from heavy smoke.

Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services Director General Y. Nagi Reddy said the alarm was raised at 6.16 am and 11 fire tenders were deployed.

He stated: “The entrance of the building, which is narrow, was engulfed with fire and smoke and the access to the first floor through the staircase was only one metre, due to which the occupants were unable to escape. The building had only one entry of two metres, which is like a tunnel.”

Narrow entryways blamed for fire fatalities in Hyderabad

Officials confirmed that the building had limited access and no secondary exits, which contributed to the high number of casualties.

According to The Hindu, two separate entry points – one narrow entrance leading to the home and another to the commercial area – restricted evacuation and hampered rescue operations.

The structure, which housed a pearl trading business and residential quarters, reportedly had no external fire escape route.

DG Y. Nagi Reddy explained that rescue workers had to wear oxygen masks to enter the building due to the level of smoke present.

A firefighter was hospitalised after falling ill during the response.

CM Revanth Reddy orders probe and directs medical aid

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has ordered a full investigation into the incident and instructed officials to provide support to the injured and affected families.

A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office said: “The Chief Minister issued orders to shift the injured to nearby hospitals and provide better medical treatment.”

It added: “He also enquired about the steps being taken for rescue and relief operations by the Police and Fire Service wings.”

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka confirmed that ex-gratia payments of ₹5 lakh would be given to the families of each of the deceased.

National and political leaders respond to Hyderabad tragedy

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced compensation of ₹2 lakh for each bereaved family and ₹50,000 for injured individuals from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.

The Prime Minister posted on X: “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy in Hyderabad, Telangana. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.”

Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma described the event as distressing and directed authorities to provide all necessary support.

Other political leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, also issued condolences and urged for support measures.

Hyderabad building fire leaves 17 dead near Charminar: Summary

Media reports have confirmed that 17 people died following a fire at a building in Gulzar Houz, Hyderabad.

The incident occurred early on 18 May 2025 and was reported at 6.16 am.

The fire originated in a ground floor jewellery shop.

Asphyxiation was the primary cause of death for the victims.

Fire officials stated the building had narrow entry points which hindered evacuation.

The building lacked alternate exits or external fire escapes.

Rescue operations required use of oxygen masks due to heavy smoke.

One firefighter was hospitalised during the response.

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy ordered a probe and directed emergency care.

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced ₹5 lakh compensation per deceased.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed national relief of ₹2 lakh per deceased and ₹50,000 per injured.

Multiple political leaders have expressed condolences.

London Fire Brigade urge caution amid increase in heating-related fires

by Featured NewsSafety

Since 22 December, London Fire Brigade has attended a heating-related fire every day. In total, 36 incidents have occurred, resulting in six injuries. With temperatures dropping in the colder months and increasing energy costs, some households have turned to alternative heating methods, contributing to a surge in fires. In 2024, firefighters attended 236 heating-related fires.

As part of Register My Appliance Week, the Brigade is urging the public to ensure their heaters are safe and not subject to recalls. It comes as data from the last month reveals 14 per cent of fires were caused by faulty equipment.

Recently, the Officer for Product Safety and Standards recalled two types of heaters due to dangerous faults in the equipment.

Assistant Commissioner, Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter’s statement

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter, said: “ Many second-hand appliances may seem like a cost-effective choice but could pose serious risks if they are faulty. Always check that the heater isn’t on a recall list and that it’s being sold by a reputable seller.

“We would recommend that you register your electrical appliances, as that means you’ll be notified if any faults are identified with it. Our Fire Investigators have seen the consequences of fires caused by non-compliant and counterfeit heaters that have been recalled due to safety concerns.

“It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure these items are in good working order. If you are using these items around children and pets, always supervise them carefully and place heaters somewhere where they won’t be accidentally knocked over and away from anything that could catch fire.

“Be careful that trailing leads don’t cause an additional hazard. Many portable heaters have shutoff features that prevent the appliance from overheating and that automatically switch off the heater if it is knocked over.

“If you’re considering using an older heater, check that it is in good condition. If it sparks, has loose or damaged wires, missing safety guards or other visible damage, it’s safer to replace it or have it tested and repaired by a qualified electrician.”

Firefighters’ tips for using portable heaters

  • Make sure heaters are well maintained and in good working order. 
  • Check that your heater isn’t on a recall list – there have been many fires in the past year connected to heaters that have been recalled.  
  • Register your old and new appliances, so that you’ll be notified if there any faults identified with it
  • Never install, repair or service appliances yourself.  
  • Keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes. 
  • Always sit at least one metre away from a heater as it could set light to your clothes or chair. 
  • Before attempting to move your heater, turn it off and allow it to cool first. 

London Fire Brigade warn of the risk of heaters: Summary

The London Fire Brigade have spoken out in support of Register My Appliance Week, after attending a record number of heating-related fires in the last month.

Hotel fire at ski resort in Turkey

by Featured News

A fire at a 12-story hotel at a popular ski resort in northwestern Turkey has fatally wounded at least 66 people. The fire occured during the schools’ semester break, when hotels in the region are experiencing their busiest season.

At least 51 other people were injured in the fire that occurred in the Grand Kartal hotel in the resort of Kartalkaya, in Bolu’s province’s Koroglu mountains, around 300 kilometres east of Instanbul. At least one of the injured was in serious condition, while 17 other people had been discharged after being treated.

30 fire trucks and 28 ambulances were sent to the site as other hotels at the resort were evacuated as a precaution and guests were placed in hotels around Bolu.

Minister of the Interior, Ali Yerlikaya’s statement

Turkey’s Minister of the Interior, Ali Yerlikaya spoke about the incident: “We are in deep pain. The hotel had 238 registered guests. The fire was reported at 3:27am and the fire department began to respond at 4:15am.”

The government appointed six prosecutors to lead an investigation into the blaze, which is believed to have started in the hotel’s restaurant section.

Bolu Governor Abdulaziz Aydin told the state-run Anadolu Agency earlier that at least two of the victims died after jumping from the building in a panic. Private NTV television and other media reported that some people tried to climb down from their rooms using sheets and blankets.

Ski Instructor, Grand Kartal hotel, Necmi Kepcetutan’s statement

Necmi Kepcetutan, a ski instructor at the hotel, said he was asleep when the fire erupted and he rushed out of the building. He told NTV television that he then helped some 20 guests out of the hotel.

Kepcetutan told the station: “The hotel was engulfed in smoke, making it difficult for guests to locate the fire escape. I cannot reach some of my students. I hope they are OK.”

Television images showed the roof and top floors of the hotel on fire, while witnesses and reports suggested that the hotel’s fire detection system failed to operate.

NTV television suggested that the wooden cladding on the exterior of the hotel, in a chalet-style design, may have accelerated the spread of the fire.

Part of the 161-room hotel is on the side of a cliff, prohibiting efforts to combat the flames as intervention could only be made from the front and sides.

Guest, Grand Kartal hotel, Atakan Yelkovan’s statement

Atakan Yelkovan, a guest staying on the third floor, told the IHA news agency that: “My wife smelled the burning. The alarm did not go off. We tried to go upstairs but couldn’t, there were flames.

“We went downstairs and came here (outside). It took about an hour for the firefighting teams to arrive. People on the upper floors were screaming. They hung down sheets… Some tried to jump.”

Tourism Minister, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy’s statement

Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy told reporters that the hotel underwent inspections in 2021 and 2024, saying: “No negative situation regarding fire competence was reported by the fire department.”

President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s statement

In an address in Ankara, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: “Unfortunately, we received very sad news this morning from Bolu, Kartalkaya. Our brothers and sisters were killed and injured in a fire that broke out in a hotel.

“All necessary steps will be taken to shed light on all aspects of the incident and to hold those responsible accountable.”

Fire at hotel in Turkish ski resort takes 66 lives: Summary

A fire in a busy Turkish ski resort has fatally wounded at least 66 people and injured at least 51. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan shared his hurt at the news, referring to those lost as our brothers and sisters.

He has confirmed that every step will be taken to find out the cause of the hotel fire.

How to Put Out a Grease Fire

by Fire SuppressionFire SuppressionFirefighting EquipmentSafety

Cooking can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. 

One of the most common and potentially dangerous kitchen mishaps is a grease fire. 

Knowing how to put out a grease fire is not just valuable knowledge; it could be life-saving. 

In this article, we will explore the causes of grease fires, the best ways of how to put out a grease fire, and crucial prevention tips to keep your kitchen safe.

What Causes Grease Fires

Grease fires are incredibly dangerous
Grease fires are incredibly dangerous and hard to put out

Grease fires, as every cautious cook knows, are the stuff of kitchen nightmares. 

It’s essential to comprehend their origins to prevent potential disasters and kitchen fires.

Overheating

At the heart of a grease fire lies the peril of overheating. 

When oil or grease in a pan is heated beyond its smoke point — the temperature at which it begins to emit smoke and break down — it becomes a volatile hazard. 

As the heat intensifies, the oil’s molecules break apart, and if not attended to, they ignite, turning a simmering pot into a raging inferno. 

This scenario is particularly common when deep frying, where oils are heated to high temperatures for cooking various delicacies.

Water

Another common catalyst for grease fires is the introduction of water. 

Imagine a sizzling pan filled with hot oil; a splash of water is akin to tossing a lit matchstick into a powder keg. 

When water meets hot grease, it doesn’t simply douse the fire; instead, it fuels it exponentially. 

The water sinks to the bottom of the pan, where it evaporates instantly due to the extreme heat. 

This rapid conversion of water to steam propels flaming grease droplets into the air, spreading the fire like a frenzied dance of danger.

Other Liquids

While water is the most notorious culprit, other liquids can also lead to disaster. 

Sauces, marinades, or even frozen foods with ice crystals can cause spattering when they come into contact with hot oil. 

These seemingly harmless elements, when introduced recklessly, can instigate a grease fire, transforming a calm cooking environment into a chaotic emergency.

Dirty Appliances

Dirty stoves, ovens, and exhaust hoods can also be unwitting accomplices. 

Grease buildup in and around these appliances serves as additional fuel. 

Over time, this accumulated grease can ignite from a simple spark or even the heat of nearby cooking. 

Thus, regular cleaning and maintenance are not just aesthetic concerns but crucial safety measures to prevent the unexpected eruption of a grease fire.

How to Put Out a Grease Fire

If a grease fire ignites, it’s crucial to act swiftly and correctly as grease fires are one of the most dangerous types of fire.

Never use water to extinguish a grease fire; water and oil don’t mix and can lead to explosive results. 

Instead, follow these steps:

Turn Off the Heat

The moment a grease fire erupts, your first action should be swift and decisive: turn off the heat source immediately. 

By removing the fire’s fuel supply, you halt its potential escalation. 

This simple act can prevent a small flare-up from spiralling into a major conflagration.

Covering the Pot

A metal lid or a baking sheet is your ally in combating a grease fire. 

Place it over the pot with precision, ensuring it entirely covers the flames. 

This makeshift shield serves a crucial purpose: it denies the fire access to oxygen, an element essential for combustion. 

While using a lid, avoid using a glass one; the intense heat can cause it to shatter, creating an additional hazard.

Baking Soda

For small, manageable fires, a common kitchen ingredient can prove to be a lifesaver: baking soda. 

Carefully and evenly sprinkle baking soda over the fire. 

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, disrupts the chemical reaction of the fire, acting as a smothering agent. 

Keeping a box of baking soda within arm’s reach of your stove ensures that you have an immediate and effective countermeasure for minor grease fires.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

When a grease fire defies initial attempts at control, a specialised tool becomes essential: the Class F fire extinguisher. 

Specifically designed for kitchen fires, this extinguisher contains a special extinguishing agent that swiftly suppresses grease fires. 

Hold the nozzle, aim it at the base of the fire, and sweep it from side to side. 

Proper usage can rapidly diminish the flames, preventing further spread.

Prioritise Safety

Large grease fires should be left to professionals to put out
Large grease fires should be left to professionals to put out

If, despite your efforts, the grease fire persists and grows, it’s imperative to prioritise safety above all else. 

Immediately evacuate the premises and call the fire department. 

Firefighters are trained professionals equipped to handle even the most severe kitchen fires. 

Do not attempt to be a hero in such situations; your safety and the safety of those around you is paramount.

Why are Grease Fires so Dangerous

Grease fires are not just ordinary flames; they are a volatile combination of intense heat, rapid escalation, and unsuspecting triggers. 

Understanding why these fires are so perilous is crucial for everyone, as it can be the key to preventing and managing them effectively.

Rapid Escalation

The alarming characteristic of grease fires lies in their speed of escalation. 

Unlike some other fires that begin with a slow burn, a grease fire can transform from a minor sizzle to a raging inferno within seconds. 

The flammable nature of grease, coupled with the high temperatures used in cooking, creates a volatile mix. 

A mere distraction can lead to a small spill catching fire, and within moments, the entire kitchen can be ablaze. 

This swift escalation demands immediate, well-informed action to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control.

Unpredictable Expansion

What makes grease fires especially hazardous is their tendency to spread rapidly and unpredictably. 

Once ignited, the flames can swiftly engulf nearby items, including kitchen towels, curtains, or even cabinets. 

This rapid spread not only intensifies the danger but also makes it challenging to contain the fire within its initial source. 

In moments of chaos, the fire can leap from the stove to nearby surfaces, turning a localised incident into a kitchen-wide catastrophe.

Severe Burns and Property Damage

The high temperatures generated by grease fires pose significant risks to human safety. 

Anyone attempting to intervene without proper knowledge or equipment is at risk of severe burns. 

In worst-case scenarios, these burns can be life-threatening. 

Moreover, the intense heat can cause extensive damage to property. 

Cabinets, appliances, and kitchen structures can succumb to the flames, leading to costly repairs and emotional distress. 

It’s not just about extinguishing the fire; it’s about mitigating the aftermath, which can be devastating both physically and emotionally.

The Water Trap

A critical aspect that renders grease fires exceptionally dangerous is the widespread misconception regarding their extinguishing methods. 

The instinctive reaction for many is to reach for water. 

However, this instinct is profoundly misguided. When water meets hot grease, it reacts explosively, splattering burning grease and spreading the fire rather than dousing it. 

This misconception, if not corrected, can turn a controllable situation into a catastrophic event, magnifying the danger manifold.

What Type of Fire is a Grease Fire

Class F fire extinguishers are needed for grease fires
Class F fire extinguishers are needed for grease fires

A grease fire falls under the category of a Class F fire. 

Class F fires involve cooking oils and fats, making them unique in their behaviour and extinguishing methods. 

Class F fires are one of the most dangerous classes of fire.

Regular fire extinguishers might not be effective against grease fires; it’s essential to have a specialised Class F fire extinguisher in your kitchen if you frequently cook with oils.

How to Prevent Grease Fires

Preventing a grease fire is far simpler than dealing with one. 

Here are some essential tips to keep your kitchen safe:

Stay in the Kitchen

Never leave the stove unattended while cooking. 

If you must leave, turn off the heat.

The smallest distraction can transform a simmering pot into a raging inferno.

Be Prepared

Preparedness is key. 

Every kitchen should be armed with a fire extinguisher and a trusty box of baking soda. 

Familiarise yourself with their usage. 

These tools are your first line of defence, swiftly neutralising a grease fire’s threat before it escalates. 

Knowing how to handle them can mean the difference between a minor mishap and a catastrophe averted.

Keep the Area Clean

A clean kitchen is a safe kitchen. 

Regularly scrub your stovetop, oven, and exhaust hood to banish grease buildup, the combustible culprit behind many a kitchen blaze. 

Grease, when left unchecked, can turn a simple cooking session into a disaster. 

Your diligent cleaning rituals act as a shield, guarding against unexpected conflagrations.

Use a Thermometer 

Temperature control is an art in cooking, especially when it comes to oils. 

Invest in a kitchen thermometer to monitor your oils’ temperatures closely. 

Oils have smoke points, beyond which they become highly flammable. 

By keeping your oils below these thresholds, you ensure you can stay safe.

Dry Before Cooking

Before introducing items to hot oil, ensure they are dry. 

Water droplets, when introduced to sizzling oil, create explosive splatters. 

These splatters not only pose burn risks but can also ignite surrounding surfaces. 

A simple pat-down of the items you’re frying ensures that your oil remains calm, reducing the risk of sudden, dangerous flare-ups.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. 

Overcrowded pans lead to spills, creating a hazardous situation where hot oil can spill onto open flames or heating elements. 

A controlled, appropriately filled pan ensures that your cooking stays safe, without the drama of a sudden fire.

Conclusion

Being aware of the causes, dangers, and prevention methods of grease fires is essential for anyone who spends time in the kitchen. 

By following these safety guidelines and acting promptly and correctly if a grease fire occurs, you significantly reduce the risk of a minor kitchen incident turning into a disaster. 

Remember, caution and preparedness are your best allies when it comes to keeping your kitchen and home safe.

Production halted at Apple suppliers facility after huge fire

by ActiveFeatured News

Apple supplier Foxlink has halted production at its assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh after a massive fire led part of the building to collapse on Monday, two local government officials told Reuters.

Foxlink, a unit of Taiwan’s Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co Ltd makes cables for iPhone chargers. It set up a factory in Andhra in 2020.

The fire broke out in the afternoon and damaged roughly 50% of the machinery at the factory, J Ramanaiah, who leads the Fire Services Department for Tirupati district in the state said.

The fire is now under control and there were no casualties, said Ramanaiah. He showed Reuters photos and videos of the factory blaze with charred machinery inside the plant and groups of fire fighters trying to douse the fire. The videos and photos showed huge plumes of smoke rising from the plant.

Ramanaiah said that management has reported that they estimate a loss of roughly 1 billion rupees ($12 million) from the incident.

Six killed at fire in Dhanbad residential complex

by Featured News

At least six people were killed after a massive fire broke out in the residential complex of a hospital in Jharkhand’s Dhanbad on Saturday, police said.

Superintendent of Dhanbad Police (SSP), Sanjiv Kumar, said the deceased included Dr Vikas Hazra, his wife Dr Prema Hazra, their househelp Tara, one nephew of the owner and one more person died due to suffocation from the fire. According to locals the cause of the fire was due to a short circuit.

Another person was rushed to hospital with burn injuries after the fire broke out in the Hazra Clinic and Hospital which is situated on the Telephone Exchange road in Hazra in the city in the early hours today.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DCP) (Law and Order) Arvind Kumar Binha said that the fire broke out around 1 am. Inspector of Fire department, Lakshma Prasad said that blaze broke out in the corridor joining the clinic and their residential complex. “The fire caused huge smoke in the area causing suffocation which killed these five persons,” the fire official said.

Prasad added: “If we had received the information earlier we could have managed it better. The team rescued five gents, two ladies and two dogs- one of them died on the spot. All of them have been sent to the hospital for treatment.”

Chief Minister Hemant Soren paid condolensces to those killed in the fire. “Deeply saddened by the news of the death of six people, including the famous doctor couple Dr. Vikas and Dr. Prema Hazra, in the late-night fire at Hazra Memorial Hospital in Dhanbad. May God grant peace to the departed souls and give strength to the bereaved family members to bear this difficult hour of grief,” the chief minster said on Twitter.

Fire breaks out at iconic Jenners building in Edinburgh

by Featured News

Firefighters have attended a blaze at the former Jenners department store building in Edinburgh. Emergency crews were alerted to the incident shortly before 11.30am on Monday.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 11.29am on Monday, January 23 to reports of a commercial building fire at Rose Street, Edinburgh.

“Operations Control has mobilised a total of 22 appliances and other specialist resources to the scene, where crews remain in attendance.”

No casualties have been reported, but multiple buildings were evacuated, including adjacent shops and hotels.

The complexity of the blaze left some fire crew members injured. Interim Chief Officer for SFRS, Ross Haggart, said: “The fire at the Jenners building in Edinburgh is a very serious and complex incident, and regrettably, I can confirm that five of our colleagues were taken to hospital for treatment. Four have now been discharged, however one remains in a critical condition.”

In response to the incident, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, Matt Wrack, said: “This is an extremely serious incident. Our thoughts are with this seriously injured firefighter, their family, friends, and colleagues.

“We are immediately putting in place the necessary support and will begin the process of investigating what has happened.

“The Fire Brigades Union will provide whatever assistance is required in the days ahead.”

Edinburgh Bus Station also closed, according to Scottish Citylink, who said it could potentially impact those making longer-haul journeys across Scotland and elsewhere in the UK.

NFPA releases Fire Loss in the U.S report findings

by Americas - Projects

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released findings from its latest “Fire Loss in the U.S.” report, which shows that the total number of U.S. fires overall rose eight percent from 2019 to 2020. While some year-to-year fluctuation is normal, this increase reflects a far from typical year due to the pandemic.

“In 2020, more people were working and studying at home, commuting far less, and spending more time socialising outside,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “It appears that the fires followed these shifts.”

According to the report, which provides a broad overview of how, when, and where U.S. fires occur and their impact on life and property, residential structure fires rose five percent from 2019 to 2020, while non-residential structure fires fell eight percent. Highway vehicle fires fell nine percent; outside and other fires rose 17 percent. Civilian deaths and injuries fell six percent and eight percent, respectively.

Over the long-term, much progress has been made in reducing the U.S. fire problem. The estimated total of fires was 54 percent lower in 2020 than in 1980, while fire death and injury estimates were 46 percent and 50 percent lower, respectively, over the same period. Because the U.S. population has grown since 1980, population-based rates have dropped even more than the estimates have.

“Overall, we’ve seen significant declines in the total number of fires and fire deaths over the past 40 years. That’s the good news,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “At the same time, most of the reduction in reported fires and fire losses occurred more than a decade ago. There is still more work to do, particularly around home fires.”

The report notes that less progress has been made in preventing fire deaths and injuries associated with reported home fires; three-quarters (74 percent) of all U.S. fire deaths occur in homes. The rate of 7.2 deaths per 1,000 reported home fires was almost identical to the rate of 7.1 in 1980.

“While home fires are happening less often, when they do occur, people are struggling to escape safely,” said Carli. “These findings reinforce the critical importance of better educating the public about how fast today’s home fires grow and spread, how little time they have to escape from the time the smoke alarm sounds, and the know-how to use that time wisely in the event of a home fire.”

Key findings from the report include the following:

  • Overall, local fire departments responded to an estimated 1,388,500 fires in 2020, resulting in 3,500 civilian deaths, 15,200 civilian injuries and $21.9 billion in direct property damage.
  • Every 23 seconds, a fire department in the United States responds to a fire somewhere in the nation.
  • A fire occurs in a structure at the rate of one every 64 seconds, and a home fire occurs every 89 seconds.
  • The death rate per 1,000 reported one- or two-family home fires was 16 percent higher than in 1980, while the comparable rate for apartment fires was 43 percent lower.
  • Sixty-four percent of all U.S. home fire deaths occurred in one- or two-family homes; the other 10 percent occurred in apartments or other multi-family housing.
  • Eighteen percent of fire deaths were caused by vehicle fires.

First sergeant Saleh killed in blaze at Dubai Investment Park

by Middle East - Featured News Archives

A two-floor wall collapse caused the death of a firefighter and injured another in the fire that ravaged two warehouses in Dubai Investment Park, a Dubai Civil Defence official said on Wednesday 29th July.

Brigadier Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, Assistant Director-General of Fire and Rescue at Dubai Civil Defence, said on Tuesday 28th July, firefighters responded to an emergency call about the fire at 3:43pm.

Firefighters from several fire stations were dispatched to the area and the blaze was brought under control by 5.30pm.

However, a warehouse wall spanning two floors collapsed, causing the death of First Sergeant Adil Nasser Saleh and injuring another firefighter grievously.

“All firefighters followed the safety measures as they have experience in fighting the most complicated fires. But the wall collapse was surprising,” Brig Al Mutawa said.

A specialist team carried out an investigation to determine the reasons and circumstances behind the incident.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, mourned the loss of the firefighter.

”The precious civil defense men are exerting efforts to protect lives, security and safety of our country. Today, Dubai lost Sgt. Adel Nasser Saleh, who was martyred during his call to duty. We ask God for mercy on him and patience and solace to his family.”

Saleh, who worked for 25 years in Civil Defence, was a father of five children. He was known for his positive spirit and participation in major fires even when he was not on duty.