The community police unit under the Gambia Police Force in collaboration with the Fire and Rescue Services are currently embarking on a massive community sensitization programme.
The programme which began on 26th September 2012, continued on Tuesday at the Jammeh Foundation for Peace Hospital at Bundung Borehole, in the Kanifing Municipality.
This meeting brought together participants from the community and members of the Gambia Fire and Secure Services and the police.
Speaking to this reporter, the Divisional Fire Officer, Haddy Bah, said that the purpose of the sensitization meeting was to sensititize the communities on fire safety and prevention.
“Since 75% of fire outbreaks are domestic fires, we feel it is good to come down to the communities and discuss with them,” she said.
Mrs Bah attributed the causes of most domestic fire outbreaks to illegal electricity connections, wrong wiring of electrical appliances and candles.
She urged the public to be attentive and careful when using electricity, and further advised them to disconnect all electrical appliances when in bed and when leaving the house.
Muhammed Drammeh of the Fire and Rescue Services commended the participation of the communities in the forum.
He said that the community members have learned a lot of new things in the sensitization exercise, and have shown their appreciation.
Inspector Sambujang Fatty of the Gambia Police Force lamented the recent alleged killings in the communities.
He said the aim of the community policing is to sensitize the public, especially the youths who are the key subjects of this sensitization programme.
“We do not want the youths to indulge in crimes, but instead we want them to be productive and be responsible in the future,” he said.
He thanked the Fire Rescue Services for the good collaboration they have with the police, and commended them on the significant role they are playing in the exercise.
Other speakers included Inspector Mariama Jallow and Superintendent Elizabeth Rakie Harding, who all encouraged communities to desist from crimes, and to work with the police in building a crime-free society.
