The Federal Capital Territory Fire Service says it is collaborating with community leaders, police and other security agencies to prevent attacks on firefighters.

The spokesman for the service, Ibrahim Tauheed, told journalists on Monday in Abuja that they were also engaging communities to raise awareness about the importance of their work.

“To discourage hoodlums from interfering with our fire-fighting operations, we are considering increasing community engagements through outreach programmes to raise awareness about the importance of our work,” Mr Tauheed explained.

He added, “Collaborating with local authorities and community leaders, including district heads and chiefs, will go a long way in addressing the ugly trend.”

The fire service official also mentioned that the agency would continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies for backup during emergencies to deter hoodlums from attacking fire service personnel and looting properties.

“The recent Samsung warehouse fire experience was an excellent example where hoodlums and other miscreants in their large numbers attacked our personnel to pave the way for their nefarious activities.

“The collaboration with security agencies and community leaders will, therefore, create a much-needed, safer environment for our personnel to work in,” Mr Tauheed said.

(NAN)