Assistant Divisional Officer grade II (ADOII) Thaddeus Jabal Mabanye, Public Relations Officer of Somanya Municipal Fire Station has charged students to prioritize fire safety in dormitories and off-campus housing.

He said fire safety was a critical aspect of everyday life because effective safety measures and procedures could reduce the risk of injury and save lives.

Fire can spread quickly and be difficult to control, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life.

ADOII Mabanye, was speaking to students at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya at the University’s fifth commencement lecture.

He said, ” students staying away from home often present new challenges such as the lack of understanding potential fire risks in dormitories and off-campus housing.”

Students’ negligence and carelessness in handling electric power appliances can result in fire outbreaks.

It is therefore incumbent on them to adhere to the fire safety sensitisation programmes and education imparted to them,” he noted.

The safety measures he mentioned were the possession of fire extinguishers and knowing how to use them, keeping an eye on smoke and cooking carefully.

Others are, use only one electrical appliance in one socket, paper, clothes and flammable liquids should be kept away from stoves / LPG stoves.

He urged students at the various Universities to practise their escape plans regularly, identifying at least two ways out of every room.

He said ” the Somanya Municipal Fire Station is committed to supporting the university community by providing resources and assistance. We will at all times collaborate with the university during Campus Fire Safety Month to raise awareness about fire prevention strategies.”

“As a community, you are therefore encouraged to reach out for guidance on best practices for maintaining a safe living environment,” he emphasised.