Install hydrants, fire detectors in buildings - Police

FIRE OUTBREAKS

Police have directed owners of big stores, supermarkets and entertainment places to install water hydrant systems and automatic fire detection systems in their buildings in a bid to control loss of property and lives in case of fire outbreak.

The Police's call follows last week's fire incident that saw a shoe store and toilet paper factory Salkem General Uganda limited in Nakawa division, Kampala go up in flames.

According to Police Spokesperson Emilian Kayima, the presence of hydrants eases work for the fire brigade.

He said many people don't put all fire measures in consideration due to laxity.

During the weekly Police press briefing at Kampala Central Police Station on Monday, Kayima explained that the fire brigade vehicle has only 8,000 litres of water, which easily gets finished in case of lack of a hydrant.

"Put automatic fire detection machines so that fire can be fought when it is still manageable. Some people have fire extinguishers but don't know how to operate them," he stated.  

Kayima also highlighted the need to have assembly points, especially at malls but they must be highly guarded. "Do not get excited and forget that security is paramount," he warned.