By: Gareyson Yaba Neufville
The Liberia National Fire Service in Maryland County is raising alarm over worsening working conditions, lack of equipment, and limited logistical support despite repeated appeals to government authorities and partners.
Speaking in an interview with our reporter at the fire service headquarters in Harper, Maryland County Commander Nathaniel Williams described the institution’s condition as “terrible,” especially during the ongoing rainy season.
According to Commander Williams, the office building leaks heavily whenever rain falls, damaging important documents and disrupting operations.
“We are working in very terrible conditions. Almost every office gets wet during rainfall, making it difficult to protect important documents,” he said.
Williams revealed that since taking over in 2019, he inherited a struggling institution with no firefighting equipment, emergency response tools, or mobility to effectively respond to fire incidents across the county.
“I inherited this facility with no equipment and no mobility at all. It has been difficult carrying out our responsibilities, and many citizens criticize us because they believe we are not serving the people,” he added.
The commander disclosed that several requests for support have been sent to county authorities, lawmakers, and the national headquarters of the Liberia National Fire Service, but the challenges remain unresolved.
He also revealed that he personally purchased zinc on several occasions to repair the leaking roof, though the building’s poor condition continues to pose serious problems.
Commander Williams called on government and humanitarian partners to urgently intervene by improving logistics, transportation, and operational support for the county fire service.
At the same time, he urged the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) in Maryland County to strengthen collaboration with the fire service during electrical installations in communities.
According to him, many recent fire incidents in Pleebo were caused by poor electrical wiring and unsafe stove usage as electricity expands into rural communities.
“As electricity spreads to rural areas, many residents still lack knowledge about electrical safety. We need stronger cooperation with LEC so our officers can provide awareness during installation exercises,” Williams explained.
He emphasized that public awareness and preventive measures remain critical to reducing fire outbreaks across Maryland County.
