The Kaduna State Climate Change Accountability Mechanism (KADCCAM) has warned hunters and other residents against indiscriminate bush burning as the Harmattan season approaches, citing the risk of fire outbreaks, environmental degradation and destruction of biodiversity.
The mechanism said the dry vegetation, low humidity and dusty winds associated with Harmattan could cause fires to spread rapidly across farmlands, forests, bushes, markets and residential communities.
In a statement, the Co-Director of KADCCAM, Ibrahima Yakubu, urged hunters to avoid setting bushes ablaze in search of game, warning that such practices could result in uncontrollable fires with devastating consequences for communities and the environment.
He also called on farmers, traders, households and business owners to exercise caution when handling fire, cooking equipment, electrical appliances and other potential sources of ignition.
Yakubu advised residents to avoid open burning of refuse, careless disposal of cigarette butts and the storage of flammable materials near heat sources.
He further urged households and institutions to inspect electrical connections, switch off unused appliances and keep basic firefighting equipment where possible.
The mechanism also cautioned against deforestation, indiscriminate waste disposal and other activities that contribute to air pollution and environmental degradation.
It called on farmers and herders to adopt environmentally sustainable land management practices, protect trees and vegetation and avoid uncontrolled bush burning.
KADCCAM further advised residents to minimise exposure to dust, maintain proper hygiene and protect vulnerable groups, particularly children, older persons and people with respiratory conditions.
It stressed that preventing fire outbreaks and other environmental hazards required collective efforts from government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, community organisations and residents.
The mechanism urged members of the public to report fire outbreaks and other environmental emergencies promptly to relevant authorities, rather than attempting to handle dangerous situations without adequate training or equipments.
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