Fire service raises alarm over solar inverter safety after Taraba inferno

The Federal Fire Service, FFS, in Taraba State, has issued a warning to residents about the potential dangers of solar inverters, batteries and electrical connections to prevent fire outbreaks. The command emphasized the importance of proper installation, regular inspections and maintenance of these components to reduce the risk of fire emergencies. They advised the public to promptly report any fire incidents to enable firefighters to respond swiftly and minimize loss of lives and property.

The advisory came after a fire outbreak at a residential building in the Sabon Layi area of Jalingo, which the FFS successfully controlled on Sunday. The Public Relations Officer of the command, Abdulwahab Bello, revealed that the incident was reported to the Control Room by a firefighter, ASF II Buhari Umar, leading to the immediate deployment of firefighting resources.

The fire, believed to have been caused by a solar inverter, affected an estimated area of 100 by 80 metres at a residence belonging to Mustapha Saleh. A post-fire inspection confirmed that the fire had been completely extinguished, with no lives lost or injuries recorded. However, the fire resulted in property damage valued at approximately N15 million, while the damaged property was estimated at N2.5 million.

Following the successful extinguishing of the fire, the firefighting crew returned safely to their station. The FFS reiterated the necessity for residents to observe fire safety precautions, especially during the installation and maintenance of solar power systems, in order to prevent avoidable fire incidents.