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The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has confirmed that there were 30 fire incidents recorded nationwide between January and February 2026. This figure is based on data compiled during the two-month period, highlighting a concerning surge in fire outbreaks across the country.
According to the NDMA, the Southern, Northern, and Western Area Urban regions were the most affected, accounting for the majority of the reported fire incidents. Specifically, the district of Bombali in the Northern region, along with the Western Area Urban district, reported the highest number of cases, with these two regions together representing more than half of all fire incidents recorded.
The NDMA’s analysis indicates that 13 of these fire incidents had unknown causes, making up nearly half of the reported cases. However, electrical-related issues were identified as a significant factor, contributing to 14 of the incidents. Power surges and electrical malfunctions were among the primary causes behind these fires, making them the most frequently reported risk factors.
Additionally, a few incidents were linked to human activity, particularly community disputes and certain environmental practices. One such practice included the burning of farm bushes and vegetation, which experts say contributes to the spread of fire in nearby areas. In some cases, people using fire to smoke out snakes also led to accidental fires.
As Sierra Leone enters the dry season, the NDMA has issued a warning that the risk of fire spreading, especially from bush fires, is high. In response, the agency is urging citizens, institutions, and businesses to adopt precautionary measures to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks. The NDMA emphasized the importance of ensuring all electrical installations are carried out by qualified and certified electricians and encouraged the use of circuit breakers and surge protectors in homes and businesses.
The agency also advised people to avoid illegal electrical connections, refrain from overloading sockets and extension cords, and conduct regular inspections and maintenance of electrical systems. The NDMA further recommended that individuals exercise extreme caution when using open flames or engaging in burning activities near residential areas.
In the wake of these incidents, the NDMA reminds the public that fire prevention is a shared responsibility, and everyone must take proactive steps to safeguard their homes, businesses, and communities. For emergencies, the public is encouraged to contact the NDMA through its official toll-free line 1199.
The agency’s Director of Communications, Mohamed L. Bah, highlighted the significance of these findings in an official statement, stressing that addressing fire risks requires coordinated efforts across all sectors. The NDMA also promised to continue monitoring the situation throughout the year and work closely with communities to prevent further fire incidents.
