By Sylvia Kodilichukwu, Enugu
Apparently peeved by the spate of petroleum products tanker accidents in the South-East state, Enugu State Fire Service has urged motorists to quickly alert emergency responders through dedicated phone numbers when such mishaps occur on major roads.
It gave the emergency numbers as 08080304303, 122 and 112 for immediate reporting of tanker crashes, fires or related emergencies.
Director of the service, Engr. Okwudili Ohaa, gave the advice on Tuesday in Enugu while speaking with newsmen.
Ohaa, who is also the state’s Chief Fire Officer, stressed that accurate location details could save lives and reduce disaster risks.
He said: “Timely information helps emergency agencies respond quickly and contain dangerous situations before they escalate.”
He advised motorists to move far from fallen fuel tankers, even when no flames are visible.
According to him, victims trapped inside accident vehicles should be rescued immediately before everyone leaves the danger zone.
“Every second matters when dealing with fuel tanker emergencies,” he counseled.
Ohaa explained that the Federal Road Safety Corps, police and firefighters each play critical roles.
He said: “Firefighters control hazards by wetting the surrounding area of the accident; the FRSC manages traffic, traffic diversion and evacuates victims; while police secure the area.”
He warned against fuel scooping, gathering of crowds at accident scenes or recording videos near such scenes.
He said: “Curiosity around tanker accidents can cost lives and worsen emergencies.”
Ohaa urged motorists to give right of way to emergency vehicles rushing to accident scenes.
He also called on road users to assist accident victims, especially in incidents without inflammable materials, adding “humanity must come first before social media attention or online popularity.”
On the occasion of International Firefighters’ Day, Ohaa observed a minute’s silence for fallen firefighters.
He said: “Firefighters continue making personal sacrifices daily to protect lives and property.”
*PHOTO CAPTION: Ohaa.
