Property damage and loss of life have been the unfortunate consequences of fires occurring at various times in Garowe, the capital city of Puntland. The extent of damage caused by a fire can be mitigated by effectively managing the fire risk and ensuring the prompt arrival of firefighters at the scene.
Gashaan Abdi Mohamed, the fire chief of the local government emphasized that fuel stations, camps for displaced people, car garages, and markets are the most common places where fires break out in the City. However, he reassured that the local government’s fire department is always swift in assisting and addressing the severity of the fires. He also identified certain factors that hinder the immediate suppression of fires, particularly in areas like refugee camps where the dirt roads pose a challenge.
Gashaan explained that congested streets, including those occupied by IDPs, and individuals who fail to promptly notify the fire department contribute to the obstacles faced during firefighting efforts. However, once the severity of the fire becomes apparent and people realize they are unable to control it, they eventually contact the fire department for assistance.
Eng. Abdirisaaq Diriye Muse, who investigated the causes of fires in Garowe, highlighted specific conditions that contribute to fire incidents. He mentioned that fuel stations situated in inappropriate locations and coal-fired restaurants within crowded markets are among the factors that increase the risk of fires. Additionally, smoking in car garages is a common cause of fires, as it can easily ignite flammable materials within the garage and potentially spread to the surrounding areas. He also accentuated that most fires occur during the summer when strong winds facilitate the rapid spread of flames across a wide area.
Nurto Mohamed Maadey, an IDP from Garowe, emphasized that the primary cause of the frequent fires in the IDP camps is the flimsy construction of the houses. These makeshift structures, consisting mostly of shacks and huts, are highly susceptible to catching fire, particularly during the windy season.
“Our living conditions are precarious, as even a small fire can engulf our shacks in flames. When strong winds exacerbate the situation, it becomes nearly impossible for firefighters to save us,” stated Nurto.
In response to the recurring fires in Garowe, Awil Mohamed Hirsi Buulle, the Director of the Disaster Management Department at the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Puntland, has proposed several measures to mitigate the risk. Buulle suggested that gas stations should be located separately from restaurants, banks, malls, and hotels, and should be safeguarded against potential fire hazards such as smoking. Additionally, markets, car garages, and the huts of displaced people should be adequately protected.
“Those responsible for starting fires should be held accountable,” emphasized Director Awil Buulle. He also stressed the importance of raising awareness about fire safety within the community and through media channels to ensure that people understand the potential dangers and take necessary precautions.
Overall, it is evident that the vulnerability of the houses in Garowe’s IDP camps, coupled with inadequate fire safety measures, has contributed to the frequent outbreaks of fires. By addressing these issues through improved housing conditions, proper separation of facilities, and comprehensive awareness campaigns, the risk of fires can be significantly reduced, safeguarding the lives and properties of the residents.
PUNTLAND POST