Firefighters from the Kwara State Fire Service successfully contained a major fire outbreak on Thursday at a Mouka Foam distribution depot located near the Asa Dam Hospital in Ilorin. The facility serves as a primary hub for foam distribution across the state capital and neighboring communities.

According to a statement from the Head of the Media Unit, Hassan Adekunle, the fire gutted a storey building and its rear warehouse extension. Before the emergency services were alerted, the flames had already spread to two adjacent buildings, threatening lives and a significant amount of property in the densely populated area.

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, CFS Alabi Muhammed, personally led the firefighting team to the scene to coordinate the response. Through professional intervention, the team was able to halt the escalation of the fire and prevent it from consuming the surrounding structures.

While the exact cause of the outbreak remains under investigation, Director Alabi issued a stern warning to warehouse operators and distributors regarding the storage of foam mattresses. He emphasized that these products are made from petrochemical-based materials and are highly inflammable, requiring extra caution in handling and storage.

No casualties were reported at the time of the statement, though the extent of the property damage at the depot remains significant.

He stressed the need for adequate spacing, proper ventilation, strict compliance with fire safety regulations and the installation of functional firefighting equipment in warehouses and depots handling combustible materials.

In a related development, the Kwara State Fire Service also responded to another fire outbreak on Wednesday at Franchise, Olorundola Street, opposite the Central Bank of Nigeria quarters, Pipeline Area, GAA Akanbi, Ilorin.

The incident involved a duplex with about five bedrooms, one of which was affected by the fire.

"Firefighters arrived promptly and brought the fire under control at about 12:59pm, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the building," Alabi said.

Preliminary findings revealed that the fire originated from a solar-powered system, which escalated and affected the bedroom before the arrival of the fire crew.

Alabi advised residents and users of solar and alternative power systems to ensure proper installation by certified technicians, routine maintenance and the use of quality components.

He also emphasised the importance of installing protective devices and keeping combustible materials away from power sources to prevent fire outbreaks.

The Kwara State Fire Service reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.