The Federal Fire Service (FFS), Gombe State Command, has strengthened its operational capacity through an in-house training programme on fire investigation for its officers and personnel.
The weekly lecture was delivered by CSF D.D. Garfiya, Head of Human Resource Management (HRM), alongside DSF Eddogbanya Matthew Akoji, Head of the Inspection, Investigation and Enforcement (IIE) Department. The facilitators provided detailed insights into the principles, procedures and ethical standards guiding fire investigation.
During the session, participants were trained on how to determine the origin and causes of fire incidents, preserve fire scenes, collect and document evidence systematically, and prepare professional investigation reports.
The officers also received guidance on key aspects of fire investigation, including scene safety procedures, identification and interpretation of fire patterns, handling hazardous materials, conducting witness interviews, collaborating with relevant agencies, and using modern investigative tools and techniques.
The facilitators stressed that effective fire investigation is critical not only for understanding the causes of fire outbreaks but also for preventing future incidents, strengthening fire safety strategies, and supporting legal and insurance processes when necessary.
They further emphasized the importance of professionalism, integrity and strict adherence to ethical standards when managing fire scenes and carrying out investigations, noting that the credibility of investigative findings is vital to operational efficiency and public trust.
The Federal Fire Service Gombe State Command reaffirmed its commitment to continuous training, capacity building and knowledge sharing among personnel to ensure officers remain well prepared to respond to emergencies and safeguard lives and property across the state.
Members of the public were also urged to observe basic fire safety measures, promptly report fire incidents and cooperate with emergency responders to help reduce the risk and impact of fire outbreaks.
The Command remains committed to effective fire prevention, swift emergency response, thorough post-incident investigation and sustained public awareness on fire safety.