MIRIAM NNOLI 
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Abdulganiyu Jaji, issued a strong safety advisory on Thursday to prevent kitchen accidents and fire outbreaks during the Eid-El-Kabir celebrations.
In a statement issued by the FFS boss, Jaji cautioned celebrants, particularly women who traditionally handle festive cooking, not to overfill their cooking pans with oil while preparing Sallah meals.
He warned that cooking oil should never exceed one-third of a pan’s capacity to reduce the risk of fire.
Jaji also addressed the traditional animal roasting that marks the Eid celebration, advising that it be done in open spaces.
He also emphasized that gas cylinders should be stored away from kitchens and advised parents to keep children away from open flames and matches.
While congratulating Muslims nationwide on the joyous occasion, the Fire Service chief reminded the public to keep safety at the forefront.
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He urged households to equip their kitchens with fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and smoke detectors, and to always turn off stoves and electrical appliances before leaving the house.
He also addressed potential road and water travel hazards associated with the holiday season. Tanker and trailer drivers were advised to reduce speed and obey traffic rules to help prevent unnecessary bloodshed on the roads.
The FFS boss, however, urged Nigerians to report any fire outbreak or emergency to the nearest fire station or via designated emergency hotlines without delay.
“Cooking is at the heart of our Sallah celebrations, but it’s also where most accidental home fires begin.
“During festivals like Eid al-Adha, the risks increase as families prepare larger meals at different hours of the day. Muslim women traditionally are in charge of festive meals—to ensure cooking oil never exceeds one-third of the pan to avoid kitchen fires.
“Roasting of animals, a cherished Sallah tradition, should be done in open spaces, he emphasised, and gas cylinders must be stored outside the kitchen at all times. Parents were also warned to keep children away from open flames or matches.
“We may be ready to respond at any time, but what we truly want is for Nigerians to stay safe and avoid emergencies altogether.
“This celebration is about peace, unity, and gratitude. Let’s keep it that way, free of fire incidents and full of joy.”
