FEMA launches dry season sensitization campaign in Abuja LGA
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By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has commenced its dry season sensitization campaign in Abaji Area Council, aiming to raise awareness and prevent dry season-related disasters in the region.
Led by Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, the Director of Forecasting, Response, and Mitigation, the campaign kicked off on the streets of Abaji on Monday. It forms part of a broader initiative aimed at achieving zero loss of lives and properties during the dry season.
Mrs. Wenegieme and her team traversed the streets of Abaji, educating residents on human-induced dry season disasters and strategies to prevent them.
They emphasized the hazards associated with practices such as bush burning, unauthorized sales of petroleum products, scooping of petroleum products during tanker accidents, and improper storage of petroleum products in homes or car trunks.
Residents were also advised to be vigilant against electrical fire hazards, including leaving electrical appliances on when not in use and avoiding the sale of petroleum products near high-tension electric wires.
Furthermore, Mrs. Wenegieme encouraged community members to foster solidarity during emergencies, particularly by extending assistance to the elderly, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
She underscored the importance of establishing active Local Emergency Committees (LECs) at the grassroots level to ensure prompt response in emergency situations.
Mr. Mohammed Sabo, the acting Director-General of FEMA, emphasized the necessity of establishing and operationalizing LECs at the Area Council level to address the emergency needs of communities effectively.
He urged community members to adhere strictly to fire disaster warnings, which are more prevalent during the dry season.
In response, the Council Secretary, Mr. Agaba Agumuguo, assured the FEMA boss of the establishment, training, and inauguration of the LEC to commence operations.
He underscored the pivotal role of the committee in safeguarding the lives and properties of the people of Abaji.
The sensitization campaign will extend to other area councils of the territory, with a focus on preventing and mitigating dry season-related disasters, thus ensuring the safety and well-being of residents throughout the region.