The Kano State Fire Service (KSFS) has issued a safety advisory, urging the public to exercise caution, especially those who use charcoal to heat their rooms during the Harmattan season.
Spokesperson for the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, highlighted the increased demand for charcoal use during this period, emphasizing the heightened risk of fire outbreaks. He made the statement on Wednesday during a press briefing in Kano.
READ ALSO: How to begin charcoal export business in Nigeria
“This has become necessary because of the high demand and use of charcoal for heating rooms during Harmattan,” Abdullahi explained. “We advise that people stop sleeping with charcoal in their rooms for safety reasons.”
The Harmattan season in Kano, which typically spans from late November to February, sees temperatures ranging between 9°C (48°F) and 30°C (86°F). This weather can cause skin and respiratory health issues, prompting many people to use various methods, including charcoal, to keep their rooms warm.
“To avoid the risk of fire outbreaks, if it is necessary to keep the room warm, we recommend that charcoal be extinguished by pouring water on it,” Abdullahi said, stressing the importance of taking necessary precautions.
Despite recent price hikes, charcoal remains in high demand in Kano. Interviews with wholesalers and retailers revealed that although the price of charcoal has risen, it continues to be a popular choice for heating during the cold season.
Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, a charcoal dealer in Yankwra Market, Fagge Local Government Area, mentioned that patronage had decreased compared to previous years due to price increases. “Last year, I used to offload a truck of charcoal daily, consisting of 400 bags. Now, I sell less,” he said.
Mama Seal, a charcoal retailer in Gwamaja area of Kano, explained that the price of a bag of charcoal had risen sharply. “Currently, a bag is sold at N8,000, compared to N4,500 earlier this year,” she said. “Even with the price increase, the charcoal business remains lucrative, and I sell between 800 to 1,000 bags monthly.”
Some residents, however, continue to use charcoal as a traditional way to keep warm. Hajiya Zenab, a Kano resident, shared her practice of lighting charcoal to warm her room from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. during the Harmattan season. “I don’t put it off because I place it in a safe location to avoid any problems,” she said.
Malam Bello Matawale also expressed his reliance on charcoal, saying, “Even with the high cost, I use charcoal for domestic purposes and to keep my room warm at night.”
However, the dangers of using charcoal indoors were underscored by a recent fire incident in Odutola, Sabongari. A survivor of the fire recounted his experience, stating, “Around 2 a.m., I smelled smoke in the room. Before I could take action, a fire had already broken out. It burnt most of the property, and one of my children sustained superficial burns.”
The survivor urged the public to be cautious, especially during Harmattan, and to ensure that fires are never left unattended. “It’s advisable to be cautious with fire and ensure it is put out properly,” he advised.
