The Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA) has cautioned residents of the state to remain vigilant and proactive against fire outbreaks, warning that open burning and careless handling of fire pose serious threats to lives, property and the environment.

The warning was issued by the General Manager of KWEPA, Hon. Jide Aina, in a statement released on Tuesday, through the press secretary of the agency, Aliyu Jamiu Amode.

Hon. Aina expressed concern over recent fire incidents recorded across different parts of the state, describing the trend as worrisome and largely preventable if residents comply with environmental safety regulations.

"Most fire disasters are avoidable if residents and business operators adhere strictly to safety guidelines and take necessary precautionary measures," he said, noting that negligence and disregard for safety rules often result in unnecessary losses.

The KWEPA boss explained that indiscriminate open burning of refuse and waste materials contributes significantly to environmental degradation, air pollution, health challenges and the destruction of public and private property.

He urged residents to adopt safer and environmentally friendly waste disposal methods in line with the agency's regulations.

Hon. Aina also advised regulated premises, business operators and house owners to procure and properly maintain functional fire extinguishers within their facilities, stressing that early response equipment can help prevent minor fires from escalating into major disasters.

He further disclosed that KWEPA is concluding plans to make the provision of fire extinguishers mandatory in all regulated premises and residential buildings across Kwara State.

According to him, enforcement of the directive will commence soon, warning that defaulters will be sanctioned in line with existing environmental and safety laws.

Reaffirming the agency's commitment to environmental protection and public safety, Hon. Aina called on residents to cooperate with KWEPA by complying with safety guidelines, promptly reporting fire hazards and avoiding practices that could endanger lives and property.