AYV News, April 3, 2025
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has recorded a concerning rise in fire-related disasters, with 67 out of 71 incidents recorded in the first quarter of 2025 caused by fire outbreaks. This staggering 94% of all reported disasters emphasises the urgent need for stronger fire prevention measures, enhanced emergency response, and stricter enforcement of safety regulations across the country.
Fire outbreaks have long been a major hazard in Sierra Leone, often fueled by electrical faults, unsafe cooking practices, candles, and dry-season conditions. Densely populated urban areas, slum communities, and bushfires remain particularly vulnerable due to poor fire prevention infrastructure and limited response capacity.
Recognising the critical need to curb fire disasters, the NDMA has launched a comprehensive action plan focused on prevention, preparedness, and response. The Agency is implementing the following key interventions:
Coordinating with the National Fire Force to improve response time and efficiency; and enhancing the NDMA Situation Room’s capacity for real-time disaster monitoring and coordination.
Launching Nationwide Fire Prevention Campaigns: Conducting public education on fire safety in communities; broadcasting fire prevention tips and early warning messages via radio, TV, and social media; and engaging local leaders and community volunteers in fire risk awareness programs.
NDMA’s Commitment to National Safety
As the primary disaster response agency, the NDMA remains steadfast in its commitment to preventing and managing disasters. While fire outbreaks present a significant challenge, the above proactive steps are geared towards reducing risks, enhance response capabilities, and build resilience at all levels.
The NDMA is also calling on government institutions, private sector stakeholders, development partners, NGOs and INGOs, and communities authorities to actively support these interventions. Preventing fires is a shared responsibility, and collective action is crucial to protecting lives and property.
With the second quarter of 2025 already underway, the NDMA urges immediate and sustained action at the community level, public places, and homes to curb fire outbreaks and enhance national preparedness.
The Agency remains dedicated to leading disaster management efforts and ensuring a safer, more resilient Sierra Leone.
