Kampala – In the wake of recent devastating fire outbreaks that have claimed lives and destroyed property, the police are urging citizens to take proactive measures to prevent and prepare for such incidents.
According to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, having emergency fire-fighting equipment is crucial in saving lives and property.
“We appeal to citizens to ensure they have emergency fire-fighting equipment in their possession. It’s essential to have this equipment before government fire and rescue services arrive,” Rusoke said.
He noted that many people neglect to acquire equipment that can save their valuable assets, despite having businesses and properties worth millions.
“On average, fire-fighting equipment costs no more than 200,000 Uganda shillings, yet some entities worth 700,000 million don’t have a single fire extinguisher,” he added.
Rusoke also stressed the importance of accessibility, urging citizens and authorities to ensure that paths leading to homes and businesses remain clear to facilitate swift response by fire brigades.
“When constructing buildings, ensure that paths leading to homes and businesses remain clear to facilitate swift response by fire brigades. This is crucial for both citizens and authorities to take seriously,” he said.
His appeal follows a series of fire outbreaks that have occurred in various parts of the country, resulting in loss of life and property.
Notably, a tragic fire outbreak in Tororo district on September 5th 2024 claimed the lives of a woman, Jane Kisakye, and her two children, Peter Ben (3) and Precious Taliwako (2). The fire started when Kisakye was cooking on a charcoal stove, igniting a nearby Jerry can of petrol stored in her room.
Other incidents include a fire that gutted the offices of the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development in Bushenyi on September 3rd, 2024 resulting in significant damage, and a fire that ignited rental properties owned by Wilfred Ssebagala in Nansana West Zone, which was extinguished by residents.