Hoima market vendors sensitized on fire safety after blaze guts commercial building
He urged residents to report fire incidents promptly and emphasized the need to equip security personnel with basic firefighting skills.
Hoima: In the wake of a recent fire that destroyed a commercial building, the Albertine Police Fire Brigade has conducted a fire safety sensitization campaign targeting vendors at Hoima Central Market.
The sensitization, held within the market premises on Friday, aimed to raise awareness about fire prevention and emergency response strategies.
It follows a disturbing trend of fire incidents in Hoima City, with over four outbreaks reported in recent months.
During the session, the fire brigade educated vendors on the importance of having emergency fire-fighting equipment, maintaining accessible routes for emergency services, and regularly conducting fire drills.
SP Julius Allan Hakiza, the spokesperson for Albertine South Police, said the training is part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and preparedness. He urged residents to report fire incidents promptly and emphasized the need to equip security personnel with basic firefighting skills.
“This training is crucial in reducing response time and minimizing damage in the event of a fire. Having fire extinguishers and trained personnel can save lives and property,” Hakiza stated.
Market vendors welcomed the initiative. Mugisa Yese, a trader at Hoima Central Market, expressed appreciation and called for more frequent training sessions to ensure vendors are well-equipped to handle emergencies.
However, not all feedback was positive. Kato Ronald Rwahwiire, an aspiring MP for Hoima West Division, criticized the quality of the demonstration.
He suggested that using actual fire extinguishers during the training would have provided a more practical and impactful learning experience.
Despite the mixed reactions, the sensitization was seen as a vital step in addressing fire safety concerns in Hoima’s commercial areas, especially after the devastating building fire that left several businesses counting losses.
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