Protect Your Family, Home and Business

Fire can spread within minutes, causing devastating damage to homes, businesses and livelihoods. While accidents cannot always be prevented, many fires can be avoided by taking simple precautions and being prepared.

At ZITO Assurance, we encourage every household and business to adopt practical fire safety habits that protect lives and property.

Common Causes of Fire

Many fires in Cameroon are caused by preventable situations, including:

• Poor electrical wiring.
• Overloaded extension cables and sockets.
• Illegal or temporary electrical connections.
• Candles used during power outages.
• Gas leaks and unattended cooking.
• Faulty electrical appliances.
• Improper storage of fuel or flammable materials.
• Bush burning or uncontrolled outdoor fires near buildings.

Electrical Safety

Electrical faults remain one of the leading causes of residential and commercial fires.

To reduce the risk:

• Have electrical installations carried out by qualified electricians.
• Replace damaged sockets, switches and exposed wiring immediately.
• Avoid joining electrical wires using tape or makeshift connections.
• Do not overload extension cords or power strips with high-power appliances.
• Use quality electrical accessories that meet safety standards.
• Switch off and unplug appliances when they are not in use.
• Install circuit breakers to protect your electrical installation from overloads and short circuits.
• If your building is old, have the wiring inspected periodically.

During Power Outages

Power outages are common, but they can also increase the risk of fire.

To stay safe:

• Prefer rechargeable LED lamps or battery-powered lights instead of candles.
• If candles must be used, place them on a stable, non-flammable surface and never leave them unattended.
• Keep candles away from curtains, mattresses, paper and other combustible materials.
• Turn off candles before going to sleep or leaving a room.

Cooking Safety

Many household fires begin in the kitchen.

• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Keep children away from cooking areas.
• If cooking oil catches fire, turn off the heat immediately and cover the pot with a metal lid or damp cloth.
• Never pour water onto burning cooking oil—it can cause the flames to spread rapidly.
• Ensure gas cylinders are stored upright and checked regularly for leaks.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher

Every home, office and business should have at least one suitable fire extinguisher.

Remember to:

• Place it where it is easy to reach.
• Ensure everyone knows how to use it.
• Inspect it regularly.
• Check the pressure gauge.
• Replace or service it before its expiry date.
• Never block access to it with furniture or equipment.

A fire extinguisher is often the difference between a small incident and a devastating fire.

Protect Your Property

Simple habits can significantly reduce fire risks.

• Store petrol, diesel and gas cylinders away from living areas.
• Keep paper, cardboard and other combustible materials away from electrical equipment.
• Clear dry grass and rubbish around buildings during the dry season.
• Do not burn rubbish close to homes or commercial buildings.
• Keep emergency exits and gates clear at all times.

If a Fire Starts

Your safety comes first.

• Raise the alarm immediately.
• If the fire is still small and it is safe to do so, use a fire extinguisher.
• Disconnect electricity if it can be done safely.
• Close doors to help slow the spread of flames.
• Evacuate everyone from the building immediately.
• Call the local emergency services or seek assistance from nearby neighbours and community responders as quickly as possible.
• Do not return to the building until you are certain it is safe.

Fire Insurance Matters

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen.

Fire Insurance helps protect your home, business, equipment and other valuable assets against financial loss caused by fire and other covered risks.

At ZITO Assurance, we’re committed to helping you reduce risk before a loss occurs and providing the protection you need when the unexpected happens.

Fire Safety Checklist

Before leaving your home or business, ask yourself:

• ✓ Are all unnecessary electrical appliances switched off?
• ✓ Are extension cables free from overload?
• ✓ Are candles or lanterns completely extinguished?
• ✓ Is the gas cylinder valve closed?
• ✓ Is your fire extinguisher accessible and within its service date?
• ✓ Are exits clear in case of an emergency?