The Rwanda National Police has trained representatives of different groups in Nyanza District on fire prevention and firefighting, urging them to apply the skills acquired to protect lives and property and share the knowledge with others.
The training brought together representatives of various groups from the Southern Province, who were taught how to respond to fire emergencies, use firefighting equipment and prevent fire outbreaks.
The Rwanda National Police spokesperson for the Southern Province, CIP Hassan Kamanzi, urged participants to use their newly acquired knowledge to educate others on fire safety. He also called on managers of institutions to ensure their facilities have adequate firefighting equipment.
“We encourage those who have received this training to use their knowledge to teach others how to prevent and protect themselves against fires. We also urge different institutions to ensure they have sufficient firefighting equipment,” he said.
CIP Janvier Nkusi, from the Rwanda National Police department responsible for fire prevention, firefighting and rescue operations, explained how to respond to fire emergencies, use firefighting equipment and prevent fire-related accidents.
He emphasised the importance of knowing how to operate firefighting equipment properly and taking preventive measures before fires occur.
Nyecumi Pheias, who heads the District Administrative Security Support Organ (DASSO) in Rwabicuma Sector, commended the police for organising the training, saying it would help participants improve fire safety in their workplaces and homes.
“The training is important because it helps us understand better how to prevent fires at our workplaces and in our homes. The knowledge we have acquired will help us take preventive measures before fires break out,” she said.
Uwitonze Clarisse, a volunteer in Nyanza District, said the training had equipped participants with practical knowledge on preventing fires caused by gas and other common hazards.
“The training helps us understand how to respond when a fire breaks out, whether caused by gas or other factors. We will share the knowledge we have acquired with other community members so that they can also learn how to prevent fires,” she said.
Nyanza District Deputy Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Kayitsei Nadine, also thanked the police for the initiative, saying it would increase the number of residents equipped with fire prevention skills.
She urged participants to share the knowledge with their colleagues and other community members so that more people can learn how to prevent fires and respond appropriately when they occur.
The training aims to strengthen the capacity of residents and employees of different institutions to prevent and fight fires, protect lives and property, minimise damage and promote a culture of safety.
