BY RITA OYIBOKA
The Delta State Fire Service has urged Deltans to regularly maintain fire extinguishers in their homes, workplaces, or vehicles to ensure functionality in emergencies.
Speaking at a recent fire safety training session at the Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC) in Asaba, Fire Superintendent Benjamin Aladino expressed concern over the state of fire extinguishers in many homes and business premises across the state.
“We have observed that, in several establishments and homes, fire extinguishers are present, but most of the time, they are not functional because they have expired,” he said.
He stressed the importance of routine checks and maintenance, urging residents to service their extinguishers, at least every six months, adding that the expenses incurred in maintenance are insignificant compared to the consequences of a fire outbreak not contained.
According to him, “This six-month interval allows you to ensure that the extinguisher is still functional. It’s not just about having one; it’s about making sure it works when you need it.” The Fire Superintendent encouraged individuals to adopt these practices at home and in their vehicles, highlighting that proper maintenance could be the difference between safety and disaster.
During the training, the firemen educated journalists on how to respond to emergencies and extinguish the fire before it escalated, even as they stressed the need for firefighters to be called on time.
