Why fire outbreaks may never be totally erradicated — Lagos Fire Service
Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has said that while fire outbreaks remain a recurring challenge in Lagos, they cannot be completely eradicated but can be significantly reduced through collective responsibility, strict safety compliance and active community participation.
The Service stated this during the inauguration of the Fire Marshal Club and a Safety Walk organised to deepen public awareness and strengthen grassroots involvement in fire prevention and emergency response across the state.
The awareness walk, which held recently, commenced from the Service Headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, moved through the Ikeja Fire Station and returned to the headquarters. The exercise was aimed at sensitising residents on fire safety practices while encouraging communities to take proactive steps toward preventing fire incidents.
Speaking at the event, the Controller General of the Service, Margaret Adeseye, acknowledged that fire incidents remain a concern in Lagos but revealed that official records showed a slight reduction in cases between 2024 and 2025.
According to her, “Fire outbreaks may not be totally eliminated, but they can be drastically minimised if everyone takes responsibility, complies with safety measures and actively participates in prevention efforts.”
Adeseye explained that the Fire Marshal system is a globally recognised, community-based volunteer structure designed to strengthen fire prevention and emergency preparedness at the local level. She said the establishment of Fire Marshal Clubs in markets, commercial centres and neighbourhoods across Lagos State would significantly enhance early response and safety awareness.
“The Fire Marshal Club will serve as a critical support structure for the Service.
“Members will be adequately trained and equipped with the knowledge required to prevent fire outbreaks and respond appropriately when emergencies occur,” she said.
