The Delta State Government has reassured residents of its readiness to respond swiftly to fire outbreaks and other emergencies as the dry season heightens the risk of fire incidents across the state.
The Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, Hon. Etacherure Ejiro Terry, gave the assurance while speaking with journalists, noting that the dry season, which usually begins around November and lasts until March, naturally comes with an increased likelihood of fire outbreaks from cooking activities, gas leaks, bush burning, and other human actions.
According to the commissioner, the state government has put adequate measures in place to tackle emergencies, stressing that the ministry is not only responsible for fire response but also for handling other disasters such as flooding. He added that professional committees have been established to strengthen planning, coordination, and emergency preparedness across the state.
Terry disclosed that the state recently recorded a successful intervention at a fire incident in Apollo, where emergency personnel responded promptly and prevented further damage. He said the incident demonstrated the government’s commitment and capacity to respond effectively, regardless of distance.
He explained that while emergency teams may not be physically present in all locations at all times, timely reporting by the public enables rapid response. “Once we are informed, our men move into action immediately,” he said, assuring residents that emergency services are available at any time of the day.
On the establishment of fire stations, the commissioner revealed that the government is working toward ensuring that every local government area in Delta State has at least one functional fire station, with larger or high-risk areas having more than one. He cited Oghara as an example, noting that the presence of tank farms and flammable facilities along the riverbanks makes multiple fire stations necessary in the area.
Terry also explained that the decision to establish a fire station in Abraka was influenced by the community’s growing population and the presence of major government institutions. He added that additional stations were considered along the Oghara–Warri axis due to increasing industrial activities and the long distance between existing emergency response points.
The commissioner further disclosed that the procurement of brand-new fire trucks is currently ongoing. Although a used fire truck was initially considered for deployment, he said the state government opted for new fire trucks to properly equip the newly built fire stations. He assured that the vehicles would arrive in the coming months.
He urged residents to remain vigilant during the dry season, advising caution in the use of cooking gas and flammable materials. Farmers were also encouraged to carefully monitor bush burning activities to prevent fires from spreading beyond control.
Terry emphasised the importance of prompt communication during emergencies, noting that contact numbers of relevant officials and emergency responders have been made public. He assured residents that emergency teams are on standby and will respond to distress calls at any hour.
