A fire outbreak has destroyed the top floor of a three-storey residential building in the Ketu-Ikosi area of Lagos State, while two firefighters collapsed from exhaustion during efforts to contain the blaze.
The incident occurred at No. 11 Ademola Taiwo Street, Ketu-Ikosi, where emergency responders successfully prevented the fire from spreading to nearby buildings.
Fire Breaks Out in Ketu Residential Building
According to emergency officials, the affected property is one of two adjoining three-storey residential buildings. The fire engulfed the entire top floor before emergency teams arrived at the scene.
Responders from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service launched a coordinated operation to contain the flames and stop them from spreading to neighbouring structures.
Their swift response helped prevent what could have become a much larger disaster in the densely populated community.
Preliminary Investigation Points to Electrical Surge
Initial findings indicate that the fire was triggered by an electrical surge originating from a prepaid electricity meter installed on the building’s front balcony.
The flames quickly spread from the meter to the upper floor, causing extensive damage before firefighters succeeded in bringing the situation under control.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Two Firefighters Collapse While Battling Blaze
During the emergency operation, two personnel of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service collapsed due to exhaustion while combating the intense fire.
Emergency medical responders immediately evacuated both officers to the Trauma Centre using a LASEMA ambulance and emergency response vehicle.
Officials confirmed that the firefighters are currently receiving medical treatment and remain in stable condition.
No Deaths or Civilian Injuries Recorded
Despite the severity of the fire, authorities confirmed that no residents lost their lives and no civilian injuries were reported.
Emergency teams continued dampening-down operations after the fire was extinguished to eliminate remaining hotspots and prevent the flames from reigniting.
Recovery and damage assessment efforts also remained ongoing at the scene.
Emergency Officials Praise Responders’ Swift Action
Authorities commended the professionalism and courage displayed by emergency personnel, particularly members of the LASEMA Tiger Squad and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.
Officials noted that their rapid intervention played a critical role in preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent residential buildings, reducing the scale of destruction.
Residents Advised to Inspect Electrical Installations
Following the incident, emergency authorities urged Lagos residents to regularly inspect electrical wiring, prepaid meters and other electrical installations in their homes.
Officials warned that routine maintenance and prompt repairs of faulty electrical systems can significantly reduce the risk of similar fire outbreaks.
Residents were also encouraged to remain calm during emergencies, cooperate with rescue personnel and make use of the state’s toll-free emergency lines for faster emergency response.
