Fire safety experts recently gathered in Lagos for a two-day seminar on the latest advancements in fire protection technologies and solutions. The event, organized by Ebby-Tek Services Limited and Johnson Controls Inc., highlighted the importance of suitable fire extinguishers and awareness in homes, workplaces, and vehicles. With fire extinguishers being a common purchase for many, specialists emphasize that the equipment's suitability for specific risks is crucial.
According to Olufemi Muraino, Head of Operations at Ebby-Tek Services Limited in Ghana, different settings require different assessments for fire protection. He noted that what is needed in a kitchen is different from what is needed in a car, and what is needed in a car will be different from what is needed in an electric car. This implies that owning equipment does not necessarily guarantee preparedness, as the hazard, environment, and suitability of the protection system all matter.
The seminar also discussed the need for greater public awareness of fire protection requirements, particularly with the introduction of new technologies such as compressed natural gas vehicles and electric vehicles. Muraino emphasized that understanding the risks associated with a particular vehicle or facility is essential when selecting protective equipment. This principle applies to kitchens, shops, and workplaces, where the equipment selected needs to reflect what could burn and the conditions in which a fire could develop.
Ikechukwu Amanfo, Chief Executive Officer of Ebby-Tek Limited, highlighted automated detection and suppression as another area where public and business awareness could improve. He discussed the relevance of such systems when people are asleep or when an immediate human response may not be available. The seminar brought together oil and gas operators, manufacturers, and fire safety professionals to connect specialist knowledge with decisions made by facility owners and equipment buyers.
The event included sessions on firefighting foams and kitchen fire suppression, aiming to raise awareness and promote learning from past incidents. Muraino expressed concern over the repetition of similar fire incidents, stating that it means people are not learning from their mistakes. Ebby-Tek plans to extend its awareness work through social platforms and direct engagement with different sectors.
The seminar, held at the Four Points by Sheraton in Victoria Island, aimed to bridge the gap between specialist knowledge and decision-making in fire safety. With participants from various industries, the event provided a platform for discussions and knowledge sharing. Key issues, such as the suitability of fire extinguishers and the importance of awareness, were emphasized throughout the seminar.
Ultimately, the discussion raises a crucial question for those responsible for homes, shops, offices, or vehicles: does the protection in place actually match the risks? Experts stress that resolving this question before an emergency is essential. By promoting awareness and suitable equipment, Ebby-Tek and other organizations aim to improve fire safety in Nigeria.
Key points
- Fire safety experts emphasize the importance of suitable fire extinguishers and awareness in homes, workplaces, and vehicles.
- Different settings require different assessments for fire protection, and understanding the risks associated with a particular vehicle or facility is essential when selecting protective equipment.
- Automated detection and suppression systems can improve public and business awareness, particularly when people are asleep or when an immediate human response may not be available.
