By KELECHI OGUNLEYE

The FCT Fire Service says three of its firefighters sustained varying degrees of injuries in the Thursday night fire incident at the AYM Shafa filling station, Abuja.

The service Public Relations Officer (PRO), Ibrahim Muhammad, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Abuja on Friday.

Mohammad said that the filling station located at Area 3 Garki, was engulfed with fire after a fuel tanker filled with petrol earlier exploded.

According to him, the service got information about the incident at about 9; 44p.m., and immediately mobilised personnel and appliances to the scene.

“Owing to the magnitude of the incident, other fire service authorities also joined the emergency response, resulting in a coordinated inter-agency firefighting operation.

“In the course of controlling and putting the fire off, three of our fire fighters were grossly injured, with one currently receiving intensive medical care at the Trauma Centre of National Hospital, Abuja.

“Medical specialists are making effort to ensure his recovery, while the other two were rushed to Alliance hospital, Area 11, Garki, Abuja and are receiving medical treatment.”

He added that the cause of the fire remained under investigation.

“Members of the public are advised to refrain from speculation and await the outcome of the official investigation,” he said.

He also said that the service appreciated the cooperation of sister emergency agencies, security personnel and members of the public who assisted in ensuring a coordinated emergency response.

He further said that the FCT fire service commended the dedication, professionalism and bravery displayed by all responding fire fighters and emergency personnel.

According to him, their prompt intervention prevented what could have resulted in an even greater disaster.

Muhammad however said that preliminary assessment revealed that the fire affected the filling station premises and adjoining structures.

“One fuel tanker loaded with approximately 45,000 litres of petroleum product was engulfed by the fire.

“Preliminary damage assessment reveals that 13 fuel dispensing pumps were within the affected facility.

“Three fuel dispensers were directly affected by the fire, while two civilian vehicles were completely burnt.

“Parts of the Federal Revenue Service (FRS) office and sections of Ahmad Plaza, a two-storey commercial building beside the station were affected by the incident,” the PRO said.

He urged operators of fuel stations, commercial facilities and members of the public to strictly comply with fire safety regulations.

Muhammad said it was imperative to ensure regular maintenance of fire protection systems and report any fire emergency immediately through the appropriate emergency channels 020-9290-6118.

He quoted the Director of the FCT fire service, Adebayo Zacchaeus, as expressing concern for the injured fire fighters and calling on members of the public to keep them in their prayers as they continue receiving treatments.

Zacchaeus said that the service remained steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property through prompt emergency response, public education and the enforcement of fire safety standards.

NAN reports that the emergency operation was personally supervised by the Federal Fire Service Controller General, Olumode Samuel, FCT Fire Service Director, alongside other tactical and rescue operators. (NAN)

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