The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has debunked widespread public claims that its fire trucks often arrive at fire scenes without water.

In a statement released Tuesday by the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services, Paul Abraham, and posted on the Service’s official X handle, the agency clarified that its trucks carry between 2,000 and 5,000 litres of water or other specialised extinguishing agents designed for different types of fires.

“Importantly, the Service does not rely on water alone,” Abraham explained. “We deploy water to tackle ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth. For flammable liquids like petrol or oil, we use foam agents that smother flames and prevent re-ignition. For electrical fires or flammable gases, we apply dry chemical powder, which interrupts the fire’s chemical reaction. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is used in cases where delicate electrical or electronic equipment is involved, as it leaves no residue.”

The statement noted that the nature and severity of a fire determine the required response. “Class A fires (wood, paper) may require fewer resources, whereas Class B fires (flammable liquids) and complex incidents such as high-rise or industrial fires often demand more resources and backup support,” it said.

Abraham stressed that only upon arrival can firefighters fully assess an incident and determine the necessary resources. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to rapid and effective emergency response through specialised training, inter-agency collaboration, and ongoing equipment upgrades.

The clarification comes amid persistent criticism that FFS trucks often show up ill-equipped at emergencies, a perception the agency insists is unfounded.

Last month, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, called for urgent reform of Nigeria’s fire service law, describing the legislation enacted more than six decades ago as outdated and inadequate for modern rescue operations.