By: Sampson W. Weah – sampsonwweah7@gmail.com
Monrovia – The Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) is raising alarm over a growing safety threat: unauthorized construction on public alleys. Deputy Director General Edwin Tisdell has issued a stern warning to citizens, emphasizing that such encroachments severely hinder emergency response efforts.
“We face significant challenges reaching fire scenes because many of the alleys are blocked by unauthorized buildings,” Tisdell stated. “These obstructions delay our response time and increase the risk to lives and property.”
The deputy director’s remarks come amid mounting concerns over the increasing frequency of fire incidents in urban areas. He stressed that clearing these vital access routes is not just a matter of legality—it’s a matter of life and death.
In a move to boost the agency’s capabilities, Tisdell announced that six new fire trucks are expected to arrive in Liberia within the next two months. This reinforcement of the LNFS fleet is part of a broader strategy to modernize firefighting infrastructure across the country.
In tandem with this upgrade, the LNFS is preparing to launch a nationwide recruitment drive aimed at expanding its ranks. The initiative will focus on attracting and training new firefighters to better serve the growing demands of urban and rural communities alike.
As Liberia’s fire risks evolve, the LNFS is calling on all citizens to play a role in safety by refraining from illegal construction and supporting efforts to improve emergency response systems.
“Clear access routes—especially alleys—are essential,” Tisdell reiterated. “Every second counts during a fire emergency, and blocked pathways can mean the difference between life and death.”
The LNFS urges the public to cooperate with local authorities to ensure safer, more responsive communities.
