The Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, has revealed that over 80% of fire outbreaks and emergencies in the state are the result of carelessness.
Speaking ahead of the upcoming Lagos International Fire Safety Conference (LIFSC 2.0), scheduled for August, Adeseye emphasized the importance of prevention. According to her, the goal of the conference is to raise awareness and equip people with practical knowledge to reduce fire risks.
“The best fire fought is the one that never starts,” she said, underscoring the need for better safety practices among residents and business owners in Lagos.
The three-day event, organized under the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, will bring together more than 2,000 participants, including emergency responders, safety experts, community leaders, and policymakers. This year’s theme focuses on how technology and community involvement can help prevent fires.
The Governor of Lagos State is expected to open the conference with a keynote address, while attendees can expect expert panel discussions, workshops, and live demonstrations showcasing the latest in fire safety equipment and response systems.
Officials say the conference is a key part of the state government’s strategy to reduce disaster risks and promote a culture of preparedness and resilience.
Permanent Secretary Sesan Ogundeko emphasized the importance of sustaining these conversations to build a long-term safety culture. He noted that last year’s edition attracted over 1,800 delegates and set the tone for deeper engagement with communities across the state.
By bringing different stakeholders together, organizers hope the event will not only improve fire prevention strategies but also strengthen collaboration in protecting lives, property, and the environment.
