Kisumu council steps up emergency preparedness

Kisumu council has embarked on a two-pronged campaign to enhance its emergency preparedness. The council is planning to establish satellite fire stations in response to the growing needs of the expanding municipality, whose efficiency will be enhanced by the construction of access roads and the improvement of existing ones.

“It is important for us to meet the growing emergency needs of the town,” town engineer John Mazuri told the Nation over the weekend, adding: “We are currently considering the construction of additional fire stations in Kibos and Kajulu, among other areas.”

He said the town at present has three operational fire engines, and promised to make sure that a grounded fourth engine will be operational by early next year.

Government support

Mr Mazuri said the council will rely on government support to improve their services to the town. “A fire engine costs between Sh40 million and Sh50 million. The Central Government usually aids in the purchase of these,” he said.

Mr Mazuri said the expansion of the Dunga water treatment plant will improve accessibility of water and make the fire-fighting process effective. The council also plans to have a short digit code for the fire station, which will be easier to master.