Emergency Readiness in Schools: Ensuring Fire Safety Vigilance
In the heart of Kano State, a fire devastated Dano Memorial Secondary School's girls' hostel in July 2025, underscoring the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in educational institutions [1]. Thankfully, no lives were lost, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that lie hidden in our schools.
Just a few months prior, a tragic fire in an Islamic school in Kaura-Namoda, Zamfara state, claimed the lives of 17 Almajiri students and injured 16 others [2]. These incidents highlight the importance of proactive fire safety measures in our schools.
The fire that ignited in Makaranta Mallam Ghali, a local Islamic school, offers insights into the causes of such incidents. Witnesses report that the fire may have been sparked by a pile of dry wooden sticks, known as kara, used for oral hygiene by the students [3]. However, the rapid spread of the fire was due to the highly flammable materials stored in the school.
To prevent such incidents, schools can take several key measures. Conducting and regularly reviewing fire risk assessments is crucial to identify and mitigate hazards early [1][3]. Providing ongoing staff training to recognise fire risks and respond appropriately to fire alarms or warning signs is equally important [1][2][3].
Maintaining fire safety equipment and environmental systems, such as HVAC, to prevent overheating or ignition sources, is another essential step [1]. Enforcing strict policies, such as no smoking on grounds and regulated use of electrical devices, also plays a significant role [1].
Developing clear evacuation plans and conducting regular fire drills, aligned with NFPA standards for educational settings, is necessary [5]. Embedding fire safety into school culture, encouraging prompt reporting of hazards by students and staff, and incorporating data-driven approaches to assess safety system effectiveness and refine protocols are equally important [1][4].
Proper storage and housekeeping of flammable materials, such as chemicals and fuels, is crucial in preventing fire outbreaks in schools [3]. Regular inspections, monthly checks, and annual maintenance of fire extinguishers and safety equipment are necessary to ensure they are in good working condition [6].
Fire extinguishers and safety equipment should be placed in easily accessible locations with clear signage [6]. Providing training for staff on the proper use and maintenance of fire extinguishers and safety equipment, and educating students on their location and use, is also important [6].
Experts in the fire safety industry, such as Barr Leo E Ekong Acg(Rtd) PhD., emphasise the importance of identifying and eliminating the causes of fire incidents, and adequate training on fire safety for school stakeholders [7]. Mr. Amodu Shakiru, Head of Public Education at the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS), also stresses the importance of regular electrical maintenance in schools [4].
School managements and boards should be educated on fire safety and its techniques to prevent such incidents [8]. In the aftermath of a fire, it is crucial for local government chairmen, like Farouk Abdu, to visit the school to assess the damage caused by the fire [3].
Fire safety and prevention are essential for creating a secure environment that promotes academic excellence and safeguards the well-being of students, instructors, and staff in educational institutions. By implementing these measures, we can work towards a future where our schools are safe havens for learning and growth.
Education and self-development in the form of fire safety training are vital for school staff to effectively prevent fire incidents and ensure the safety of students in educational institutions. Regular fire safety education and proactive measures, such as conducting risk assessments, providing ongoing staff training, and maintaining fire safety equipment, can help mitigate potential dangers and foster a culture of safety within schools, ultimately leading to a secure environment that promotes academic excellence.
