Don’t Overfill Oil Pans While Cooking Sallah Meals, Fire Service Warns

As Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir today, the controller-general of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr Abdulganiyu Jaji, has issued a strong safety advisory cautioning Muslim women traditionally in charge of festive meals against overfilling cooking pans with oil to prevent fire outbreaks.

In a statement personally signed by the CG, Engr. Jaji emphasised that cooking oil should never exceed one-third of the pan’s capacity, noting that this simple measure can drastically reduce the risk of kitchen fires.

He pointed out that cooking-related fires remain the leading cause of accidental home fires in Nigeria. “These risks increase significantly during festive periods like Eid al-Adha,” he warned. “Preparing large meals for gatherings, often at irregular hours, can create a perfect storm for fire hazards if proper care is not taken.”

The fire service chief congratulated Muslims nationwide on the occasion of Eid al-Adha and urged celebrants to prioritise fire safety throughout the festivities. He encouraged households to install and maintain safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and smoke detectors and reminded them to turn off potentially hazardous devices before leaving the house.

According to Jaji, “Fire safety must not be compromised, Roasting of animals should be done in open spaces, gas cylinders must be kept outside kitchens, and children must be kept away from matches or open flames, “Jaji said.

In addition to home safety, the FFS boss warned road users, particularly tanker and trailer drivers, urging them to reduce speed and observe all traffic regulations to prevent road accidents during the holiday rush.

For Nigerians travelling by water, the CG also stressed the importance of boat safety, advising operators to consider water current levels and avoid overloading vessels to prevent accidents.

“We may be on standby to respond to emergencies, but the absolute avoidance of casualties remains our top priority. He added”

Jaji reaffirmed the fire service’s commitment to ensuring public safety during the holidays, stating that all FFS offices will remain operational and on high alert throughout the Eid period. He urged the public to promptly report any fire outbreaks or emergencies to the nearest fire station or via designated emergency hotlines.

“We want everyone to enjoy Eid al-Adha in peace and safety. That’s why we are appealing to all Nigerians to be extra vigilant this year,” he concluded.