–LNFS Reports 50+ Cases, 150+ Affected in five months
By Vaye A. Lepolu
MONROVIA – The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) has reported that a series of devastating fires across Montserrado County from July to November have affected over 150 citizens, with faulty electrical wiring cited as the leading cause.
According to statistics released by the LNFS, the capital and its environs experienced 16 fire outbreaks in July, affecting 103 people. The incidents continued with 21 people affected by a fire on August 19, followed by 12 outbreaks in October affecting 19 individuals, and 8 people affected in November.
In an exclusive briefing, LNFS Executive Director Mr. G. Warsuwah Barvoual pinpointed the “misuse of electrical appliances in homes” as the dominant factor behind the outbreaks. He highlighted that as the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) works to stabilize the power supply, citizens must exercise greater caution. “Citizens have to be careful on the use of electricity in their homes,” Director Barvoual emphasize.
“They should stop using substandard wires and practice constant change of wires… every year or even a month. They need to stop purchasing wires that are not in accordance with LEC current.” Beyond electrical faults, the Fire Service chief issued a stern warning to local gasoline vendors, identifying the common practice of storing fuel in residences as a major fire hazard.
“Liberians that are selling gasoline need to stop keeping gas in houses,” he stated. “Keeping gasoline in your homes is not good and makes the cause of fire disaster in an area.” Amid the rising incidents, Director Barvoual assured the public that the LNFS is actively working to extend its operational reach across the country.
He announced that new fire offices have already been constructed in Margibi, Nimba, and Grand Bassa counties, with projects in other counties currently in the planning stages. The LNFS reaffirmed its core mission of saving lives and property through fire prevention, firefighting, and investigation, urging all residents to adhere to the safety guidelines to prevent further tragedies.
