STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF FIRE OUTBREAKS IN HOMES AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF LAGOS STATE.

Abstract

The fire has often been described as the greatest servant but the worst master difficult to control when it turns into a conflagration, burning and destroying everything in its path. In the rage of its fury, it has no respect for anyone, not even the monarchy. Buildings as infrastructure along with people’s lives need protection against fire outbreaks. Data on fatal fire outbreaks in Lagos metropolis from2009 to 2014 were obtained from various rescue agencies in the state. Interviews were conducted alongside the structured questionnaires administered to a good number of citizens of the state. A statistical tool adopted in this research is the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The analysis made using the information from the agencies consulted shows that most fatal fires in homes often start in a bed, sofa, other loose fittings or clothing. The homes where fatal fires occur are rarely protected by smoke detectors. Fire death rates are higher for males than females and are also higher for the elderly than for younger people. Most home fires attended by the firefighters are quite small. In blocks of flats, the most common cause is a cooking appliance being left on. Arson is also a common cause in blocks of flats, though arson is most often observed in stairwells and cellars and is rarely directed at living accommodation. Arson is the most common cause of fires in public buildings. Several remedies were specified to alleviate fire outbreaks in homes and public buildings.