English
Kinyarwanda
The Fire and Rescue Brigade (FRB) was formed in 2002 with the aim of ensuring that fires or similar emergencies do not lead to deaths or injuries. Further, the expectation was that the unit would provide specialized intervention in the protection of life and property, as well as in safeguarding the environment. Specialized intervention means capacity and capabilities to deal with a variety of emergency challenges as well as sensitizing the population against fires.
Accordingly, the RNP has trained and staffed over one hundred and thirty (130) police officers and procured fifteen (15) modern firefighting and other disaster response trucks along with the necessary rescue equipment. These trucks are also stationed at the regional level, with plans underway to acquire more to be stationed at every district. This is significant progress from a unit that started with sixteen (16) officers and two (2) non-fire fighting vehicles in 2002.
This investment has enhanced ability to fight fires, to investigate their causes, and to rescue persons in danger. The unit also has conducted regular safety awareness campaigns, trainings and fire safety inspection, with the aim of sensitizing Rwandans on fire prevention measures. Indeed, since its creation the FRB has trained a total number of twenty thousand three hundred and ninety-three (20,393) people and inspected one thousand two hundred and forty four (1,244) public and private facilities.
The strategic thinking is that a strong partnership with the community is crucial in efforts geared towards preventing fires, and to fight them once they have occurred. Further, the FRB is undergoing a process of mapping high-risk areas in the cities.
The strategic thinking is that a strong partnership with the community is crucial in efforts geared towards preventing fires, and to fight them once they have occurred.
Across the country, especially in Kigali and efforts are underway to scale-up FRB services to the district level in order to ensure quick intervention.
The FRB stands prepared to make the quickest intervention possible as it positions itself to meet the challenges of a fast developing nation - Rwanda.
The Force established a toll free number, 111, which citizens can call for emergency in case of a fire outbreak, as well as 112 for Emergency, Commanding Officer and fire stations lines, 0788311120, 0788311224, 0788311657 and 0788311335.
However, for preventive measures against fire, we believe that it starts with you.
Fire disasters are avoidable if people are cautious, listen and follow guidelines provided by experts in dealing with potential causes. Property owners should take precaution and acquire fire extinguishers for emergency situations before the arrival of professional firefighters.
As part of the response to fire, RNP and its stakeholders plan to put up water hydrants in strategic locations in different cities for easy access to water sources to put out fires.
Property owners to use professional and accredited electricians, use quality cables approved by the bureau of standards, and always are quick to call the police rescue unit, whenever fire breaks out for quick response.
