The Federal Fire Service (FFS), Gombe State Command, has reinforced its operational capacity through a specialised training programme on mobile life jacket operations. The initiative is designed to strengthen water rescue preparedness and improve emergency response effectiveness in riverine and flood prone communities.

The training forms part of the Command’s ongoing professional development framework and aligns with the training and retraining policy of the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi. The session was facilitated by Mr Salihu Mahmud of SAFE Riverine Consultant Limited, who delivered both theoretical instruction and practical demonstrations on the proper use, deployment, and maintenance of mobile life jackets during water based rescue operations.

During the session, the facilitator underscored the importance of rapid response, situational awareness, and strict compliance with internationally recognised safety standards in aquatic rescue operations. He noted that the correct use of life saving equipment significantly improves survival outcomes in drowning incidents and flood related emergencies.

The State Controller, DCF SM Sulaiman, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening personnel capacity in line with modern firefighting and rescue standards. He emphasised that specialised training remains essential for equipping officers with the skills required to respond effectively to emergencies, particularly in flood vulnerable communities.

The Command reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property, while advancing proactive disaster preparedness through continuous training, inter agency collaboration, and sustained public safety awareness initiatives.