By 
Lagos State government on Monday urged residents to avoid overcrowded gatherings during the festive season.
This according to the state government is to prevent accidents, injuries and fatalities as the yuletide season is characterized by lots of parties and events.
Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola made this known in a statement.
He advised fun seekers to beware of emergency exits and meeting points.
“In the same vein, as much as possible it is better that they move around and leave as a group when attending large events or concerts,” he said.
He also advised that where alcohol is consumed, it should be done in moderation as alcohol lowers mental alertness and coordination therefore drink responsibly.
“Furthermore, it is important to not leave drinks for consumption out of sight to guard against spiking. Spiking occurs when someone deliberately introduces drugs or alcohol into your drink without your knowledge to enable them alter the content usually with the aim of carrying out negative motives. He advised further on consuming substances that you are not familiar with in public.
“Overcrowded spaces should be avoided and reported immediately to the authorities. This is to guard against a stampede should the risk crystalise,” Mojola said
Mojola also disclosed that the Commission’s safety guideline stipulates that event organisers and event venue owners are to register events above 250 guests.
“It is also pertinent that adequate crowd control and emergency evacuation plans must be put in place for large events and concerts, while safety briefings is recommended at all events to create awareness on hazard identification and controls intervals, particularly for large events and concerts. The safety briefings can be anchored by certified safety marshals who are conversant with the floor plan and layout of the facility.
“To further buttress the need for safety, the number of guests must not exceed the occupancy limit that has been assigned to any event venue or facility.
“All incidents/accidents are to be reported immediately and documented appropriately,” Mojola noted
He added that the decision to proceed, restrict, modify, postpone or cancel an event after a thorough risk assessment and submission of relevant safety documentations solely lies with the state government.
Comments