Staff members from the Office of the Dean of Students have undergone a hands-on training on fire safety and prevention in halls of residence.

The training, held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies.

“In our safeguarding initiatives, we want to create an environment that is safe and secure for our students and staff. Given that we have experienced fires at the University, we decided to train custodians and wardens because they are the first responders and decision-makers in case a fire breaks out in any Hall of Residence,” said Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students.

In 2020, Makerere University’s Main Building, commonly known as the Ivory Tower, caught fire, destroying valuable property. Earlier in 2018, a fire gutted Mary Stuart Hall, a female residence. The fire, which started in the ground-floor canteen, spread to other floors but was successfully contained by the Uganda Police.

Speaking in February 2025 during the release of the 2024 Annual Crime Report at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Director of Fires and Rescue Services, AIGP Stephen Tanui, revealed that Kampala Metropolitan recorded the highest number of fire incidents in the Country with 933 cases in 2024.

He warned that Uganda’s rapid urbanisation would increase fire incidents unless deliberate prevention measures are adopted.

“We have had fire incidents at Africa Hall, Nsibirwa and Livingstone. Some students also prepare their own meals, which increases the risk of fire outbreaks. It is therefore timely for our staff to acquire basic knowledge on fire prevention and how to respond effectively when a fire occurs,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Speaking to the participants, Mr. Levi Mwesigye, a certified fire safety trainer with NCOSAH Consults (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), emphasized the importance of proactive fire prevention. He explained that three elements, heat, fuel and oxygen are necessary for a fire to exist.

“Always ensure that fire detection systems are in place to identify fires at an early stage. Additionally, ensure fire protection systems such as portable extinguishers are functional and regularly serviced so that fires can be contained promptly,” advised.

In his presentation, Mr. Mwesigye also urged Wardens to install clear directional signage in Halls of Residence to enhance safety and facilitate quick evacuation during emergencies.

“Fires spread much faster than you might think. Always have a backup escape plan in case your main escape route becomes blocked. If you can’t put out the fire in 5 secondsor less, the fire is too large. Get out and always prioritize persons with disabilities, women, the sick, and other vulnerable individuals to ensure they are evacuated safely,” Mr. Mwesigye, said.

Apart from training the staff about fire safety at the University, the staff also received fire prevention tips applicable to their homes such as;  never to sleep in a house without water, to always have a centralized place where they keep the house key so that it is easy to find during evacuation.

“For those who have gas cylinders at home, in case of a leakage, open doors and windows to reduce the concentration of gas. If the cylinder catches fire, soak a towel or blanket in water and use it to cover the cylinder. This can help to put out the fire,” Mr. Mwesigye explained.

When using a fire extinguisher

Participants received practical demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers and learned how to identify and manage small-scale fires before they escalate into life-threatening emergencies. Tips included:

• Stand several feet away from the fire, only moving closer once the fire starts to diminish.
• Use a slow, sweeping motion and aim the fire extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.
•  If possible, use a “buddy system” to have someone back you up or to call for help if something goes wrong.
• Be sure to watch the area for a while to ensure the fire does not re-ignite.

Deciding to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Before attempting to put out a fire with a portable fire extinguisher, one must quickly answer the following questions:

• Have the building’s occupants been notified?
• Has someone called the Fire Brigade?
• Are the exit routes clear and safely accessible?
• Do I have the right type of extinguisher for the type of fire?
• Is the extinguisher large enough for the fire?
• Is the fire small and containable?

If the Answer to the above is NO, Then;

• Leave the building immediately.
• Shut all doors as you leave to slow the spread of the fire.
• As soon as you get out of the building, call the Police.