Director, Gombe State Fire Service, Mr Gerson Maiborgo, said 13 lives and property worth N107 million were lost to fire outbreaks in the last nine months across the state.

He said the service also saved 263 lives and property worth over N932 million.

Mr Maiborgo stated this on Tuesday in Gombe while reviewing the activities of the service in 2023.

He said personnel of the service had been working hard to tackle fire incidents, adding, “that is why they were able to rescued lives and saved property within the period under review.’’

Mr Maiborgo urged residents of the state to be vigilant and support personnel of the service to enable them to effectively tackle fire outbreaks through timely and genuine calls.

“We are now in the harmattan season and as we know fire is more devastating and easily spread because things are now drier and more combustible. Residents must be proactive and avoid activities that could result in outbreaks in their houses, shops or offices.

“For those using gas cookers, get your matches close by so that you don’t put on the gas cooker and then start looking for a match box and before you know it, the gas has circulated the kitchen. Those using firewood, burning waste and bushes must be careful to control the fire and not allow it to spread,” he said.

The director also advised residents to imbibe the habit of keeping fire extinguishers in their homes, shops and offices for timely response in case of emergencies.

He said the service was well prepared to fight fire cases to save lives and property throughout the harmattan.

(NAN)