By Precious D. Freeman
The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) has announced plans to construct substations in Montserrado County in order to quickly respond to fire outbreaks in the county and its environs.
The decision however comes after a series of devastating fire outbreaks in the county that have resulted in loss of lives and property since the inception of the Joseph Boakai administration in January of this year.
The LNFS, which is responsible for fire prevention and suppression in Liberia, has been facing challenges in responding to fire emergencies in Montserrado County due to the lack of adequate infrastructure and resources.
The construction of substations in strategic locations including Caldwell, Benersville, Johnsonville, Paynesville, Broadville among others within the county is expected to improve response times and help prevent the spread of fires.
According to the LNFS Director, G. Warsuwah Barvoul, the substations will be equipped with modern firefighting equipment and staffed with trained firefighters who will be on standby to respond to emergencies.
The substations, Director Barvoul noted will also serve as training centers for firefighters and provide education on fire safety to the community, stating that the construction of substations is part of the LNFS’s efforts to improve its capacity to protect lives and property in the county.
He further emphasized the importance of having a strong and efficient fire service in Montserrado County, which is the most populous county in Liberia and home to the capital city, Monrovia.
The LNFS Boss further narrated that the construction of the substations is expected to begin soon, disclosing that the LNFS is working closely with the government and other stakeholders to secure funding for the project and ensure its successful implementation.
In addition to the construction of the substations, Director Barvoul said his team is also carryon rigorous community outreach programs, educating residents on how to prevent fires and respond effectively in case of an emergency.
He noted that despite the many challenges rainging from equapment, capacity, manpower and financial encountered upon taking over, his leadership has instituted several reform initiatives, ensuring that Liberians regain confidence in the service.
Director Barvoul is at the same time urging residents of Montserrado County to take fire safety seriously and to report any fire hazards or incidents to the authorities, as well as follow preventive measures as being instructed by the LNFS.
He added that by working together with the community, the LNFS hopes to reduce the number of fire incidents in the county and protect lives and property, pledging his leadership commitment to ensuring all Liberians are safe and protected from fire disaster.
