Lagos govt warns against indiscriminate handling, storage of combustible items

Lagos State Government has warned against indiscriminate handling and storage of combustible items, saying that it had become imperative to alert the public on the need to be more safety conscious due to the risks inherent in transporting and handling combustible materials, such as fuels, chemicals and other dangerous goods.

The State Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde and Director General, Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSCOM), Mr. Lanre Mojola, gave this warning at the weekend, in a joint statement, copy of which was made available to newsmen, affirming the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu’s administration to safety of lives and protection of its citizenry devoid of hazards.

Oyerinde said the need to be more safety conscious became imperative because of the huge risks inherent in transporting and handling such combustible fuels, chemicals and other dangerous goods, leading to quantum loss of lives and property as well as litigations.

The Director General, Safety Commission, Mr. Mojola, in his remarks, said the value for lives cannot be quantified, disclosing that the Agency had commenced a “SAFETY FOR YOU'” Campaign aimed at making safety a priority for every Lagosian.

According to him, the campaign focuses on raising awareness and encouraging proactive safety measures in personal, occupational and business contexts, pointing out that “stockpiles of chemicals and combustibles carry the risk of explosions and fire outbreaks under excessive temperature and pressure.”

Mojola noted that one’s safety and that of his or her neighbors was sacrosanct, urging members of the public to take responsibility.

“When you see something, please say something. An injury to one is an injury to all,” he said.

The LSSCOM boss said officers of the Commission were already going round to ensure everywhere was safe for all and sundry, even as he admonished the public to report stockpiles of any form of dangerous goods to 07000SAFETY or to the nearest security agencies.

Besides, he urged artisans and tradesmen to seek professional advice on handling combustibles goods as well as moving them from one location to another within the state.