Controller of the Federal Fire Service (FFS) FCT Command, Muhammad Anas, has said with over 3,000 firefighters, the service is prepared to ensure the safety of lives and property as residents celebrate Christmas and New Year.

The controller reinstated the readiness of FCT firemen while addressing station commanders during the opening of ‘Yuletide Operation Swift Response to Emergencies’ on Tuesday at the FCT Command Headquarters.

According to Mr Anas, the FCT currently has 24 fire stations with over 3,000 functional personnel deployed to ensure safety during the festive period.

He charged the commanders to ensure that these measures were implemented to the fullest by ensuring all personnel stay at their duty posts during the holiday.

He disclosed that the FFS Controller-General, Samuel Olumode, had directed that all fire trucks as well as its ammunition must be intact and ready for deployment at any time, any day.

“The chemical form must be intact, water cached to the right level, vehicles sound and men available,” he said.

The command head called on all FCT residents to have the fire services control/emergency numbers for swift response in case of emergencies.

“Even if your animals fall into a well, you should be able to call the fire service emergency contact number: 080-3200-3557 toll-free number: 112 and we will be there to rescue such animals.

“Also, the duty we expect of you is that anywhere you are within the FCT, try to locate or familiarise yourself with a fire station, get their contact number as this will save you a lot than allowing the fire to start journey before you struggle to get contacts,” he advised.

The controller further advised residents against leaving household appliances on while traveling, emphasising that this could lead to fire.

“My advice to FCT residents is that it is cheaper to prevent fire than to fight fires so don’t leave your appliances on for the rest of the period you are away.

“As you are moving out for the journey of Christmas, make sure all the appliances in your house are disconnected, not only off, but disconnected from the socket to prevent any breach,” the controller advised.

He appreciated the hard work of his personnel and urged them to intensify efforts.

Mr Anas wished all FCT residents a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.

(NAN)