Vivo Energy Uganda has issued a warning to the public to maintain a safe distance from scenes of fuel tanker accidents and other related road incidents. The company's Managing Director, Joanita Mukasa Menya, made the statement during a safety training exercise in Masaka City. The exercise was part of activities marking World Safety Day, with this year's theme being "Ready to Respond." The training aimed to strengthen emergency response procedures for fuel tanker accidents and fire outbreaks.
The safety training exercise brought together Vivo Energy staff, police fire and rescue services, and local leaders. Participants demonstrated joint emergency response tactics in case of a fuel fire. According to Mukasa Menya, the initiative emphasized the importance of preparedness and swift, safe action to save lives and property when such incidents occur. The training focused on procedures to follow in the event of a fuel tanker accident or fire outbreak.
ASP Semwogerere Ismael, the Regional Fire Officer for Greater Masaka, highlighted the dangers of fuel and the need for caution. He advised that when an incident occurs, such as a fuel tanker overturning, the immediate priority should be to evacuate the area and alert emergency services, rather than rushing to the scene. This, he said, would help prevent casualties from fires and explosions.
Semwogerere also noted that most casualties in fuel-related fires are caused by people scrambling to siphon fuel from overturned tankers. He urged the public to desist from siphoning fuel whenever a tanker is involved in an accident, citing the many lives lost across the country due to this practice. The Regional Fire Officer emphasized the need for the public to understand the risks associated with fuel.
The warning by Vivo Energy Uganda and the advice from ASP Semwogerere come as a reminder of the importance of safety in the face of fuel-related incidents. The public is urged to prioritize their safety and that of others by keeping a safe distance from accident scenes and allowing emergency services to handle the situation.
The safety training exercise in Masaka City was a collaborative effort between Vivo Energy Uganda, police fire and rescue services, and local leaders. The exercise demonstrated the importance of joint emergency response tactics in case of a fuel fire. It also highlighted the need for preparedness and swift action to save lives and property.
Vivo Energy Uganda's initiative to mark World Safety Day underscores the company's commitment to safety and responsible operations. The company's efforts aim to promote a culture of safety and preparedness among its staff and the wider community.
Key points
- Vivo Energy Uganda warns public to keep safe distance from fuel tanker accident scenes.
- Safety training exercise held in Masaka City to mark World Safety Day.
- Public urged to desist from siphoning fuel from overturned tankers.
