The Akwa Ibom State Fire Service has issued a stern warning regarding the safety hazards of keeping fire extinguishers in homes and business premises without regularly checking their expiry dates or learning how to operate them properly.
According to the agency, neglecting these vital maintenance steps turns a life-saving device into a potential risk.
The Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Fire Service, Emmanuel Udofia, gave the warning in Uyo shortly after a safety awareness program held at the premises of XL FM.
He stressed that simply owning safety equipment or letting a cylinder hang passively on a wall provides a false sense of security if the device is no longer functional.
Udofia urged drivers, chief executive officers, employees, and all citizens to routinely inspect their cars, homes, and workplaces for expired fire extinguishers.
Identifying expired units allows owners to get them promptly refilled or serviced before an emergency strikes, ensuring the equipment remains reliable when needed most.
Beyond maintenance, the spokesperson heavily emphasized the critical need for citizens to understand how to use a fire extinguisher effectively.
Owning the hardware is insufficient without the practical knowledge required to handle the device under pressure during an actual fire outbreak.
Concluding his address, Udofia encouraged members of the public to visit any local fire service office for professional guidance and inquiries whenever they notice an expired cylinder.
The agency reiterated its commitment to supporting residents in maintaining proper fire safety standards across the state.
