By Jamesetta D. Williams
MONROVIA–Director General of the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), Col. G. Warsuwah Barvoul Sr., has called for stronger fire prevention measures and responsible use of emergency communication channels, while disclosing plans to expand fire stations across Liberia.
Barvoul made the statement Monday morning during an appearance on Prime FM 105.5 in Monrovia, where he discussed electrical fires, personnel training, emergency response challenges, and efforts to improve the Fire Service’s operational capacity.
The LNFS Director General expressed concern over the increasing incidence of electrical fires in Montserrado County, stressing the need for greater public awareness and cooperation among institutions responsible for electricity and fire safety.
He disclosed that the Liberia National Fire Service and the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) are expected to work together to address challenges associated with electrical fires and related safety concerns.
According to Barvoul, the proposed collaboration is intended to strengthen fire prevention efforts, improve public awareness, and reduce the risks electrical incidents pose to lives and property.
Electrical fires can result in significant damage to homes, businesses, and public facilities, making preventive measures and timely emergency responses important in protecting communities.
However, the Director General did not provide figures on the number of electrical fires recorded in Montserrado County or specify how much the incidents have increased.
Barvoul also disclosed that Montserrado County currently has seven fire stations providing emergency response services to communities.
He said the LNFS is working with the national government to establish fire stations in the remaining counties as part of efforts to extend firefighting and emergency services beyond Montserrado.
The Director General acknowledged that establishing additional stations nationwide would require time, financial resources, and sustained government support.
He expressed the institution’s commitment to working with the government and other partners to gradually expand fire protection services and improve access to emergency assistance across the country.
Expanding fire stations could help improve response times in communities where access to firefighting services may be limited. However, the statement did not provide a timeline for construction or identify the counties expected to benefit first.
The LNFS chief also raised concerns about people calling the service’s emergency radio room without genuine emergencies.
He warned that unnecessary calls could interfere with emergency operations and potentially delay assistance to people facing actual emergencies.
Barvoul urged the public to use emergency communication channels responsibly, provide accurate information, and promptly report genuine fire incidents and other emergencies.
He emphasized that public cooperation is important to ensuring that emergency personnel can respond effectively when lives and property are at risk.
Addressing personnel development, Barvoul highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the professional capacity of LNFS officers through local and international training opportunities.
He acknowledged the contribution of the Embassy of India to personnel development through training programs and other professional initiatives.
The Director General also disclosed that several LNFS personnel have traveled abroad to acquire additional knowledge, technical skills, and practical experience.
According to him, some personnel have participated in training opportunities in countries including China and South Africa.
He said the initiatives form part of broader efforts to improve the skills of firefighters and strengthen the institution’s ability to respond to emergencies across Liberia.
During the radio appearance, Barvoul donated a four-kilogram fire extinguisher to Prime FM management as part of efforts to promote fire preparedness and public safety.
The donation was received by the station’s manager, Kelvin, who expressed appreciation to the Director General for the gesture and his commitment to promoting fire safety.
The donation also served as a reminder of the importance of having appropriate fire safety equipment in workplaces and public facilities.
The LNFS continues to encourage individuals, businesses, media institutions, and other organizations to adopt fire prevention measures and maintain suitable fire safety equipment to help reduce the risk of fire incidents.
Barvoul’s remarks highlight several challenges facing the Liberia National Fire Service, including electrical fires, emergency communication misuse, personnel development, and the need to expand firefighting infrastructure across the country.
While the institution is pursuing partnerships and training opportunities to improve its operations, the proposed expansion of fire stations will depend on available resources and government support.
The Director General urged the public to cooperate with the LNFS in preventing fires and protecting lives and property.
As efforts continue to strengthen the country’s emergency response system, improved fire prevention, responsible reporting of emergencies, and wider access to firefighting services remain important to public safety.
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