Fire at Stanbic Bank: Uganda police issues a strong warning.

KAMPALA, Uganda: The Uganda police and Stanbic Bank health and safety department conducted a smoke simulator test at the Nakasero branch on Wednesday. The test aimed to assess the readiness of the people in the building in case of a fire. Smoke was released from the kitchen side, and the building was temporarily evacuated.

According to Godfrey Okobo, the assistant head of operations in the fire and rescue department of Uganda police the law requires every house owner to put in place fire fighting equipment and early warning systems.

Uganda police during a fire drill at the Stanbic bank fire assembly point in Nakasero on Wednesday. /@ Stephen Okhutu

Okobo emphasized the importance of being prepared during an evacuation. “When you hear the alarm, don’t take things for granted,” he said. “Raise the alarms, assist those who need to be evacuated, call for help, and extinguish the fire using the equipment available.”

He also advised employees to know their workplace well and be aware of the exits. “Population density in relation to the exits is crucial to avoid congestion during an evacuation,” he said.

Okobo reminded everyone that fire is always caused by combustible material, a source of ignition, and oxygen. He encouraged people to take fire safety seriously and be prepared in case of an emergency.

Patrick Arebu, the head of health and safety at Stanbic Bank emphasized the importance of fire safety and the need for regular drills to ensure preparedness.

The exercise has, according to Arebu exposed the low response rate among Ugandans in regards to fire.
Recently in Kampala, a Ugandan capital, a fuel tank caught fire and over 30 people died in an inferno.

The smoke simulator test is an essential tool in assessing the readiness of people in case of a fire. It helps to identify areas for improvement and ensures that occupants are prepared in case of an emergency.