Businesses in Quartier Matheus, a busy downtown shopping hub, were left counting losses last evening when a raging fire gutted their premises and merchandise. It is the latest in a series of fire incidents which we have become a regular phenomenon in recent years.

And with most of these businesses uninsured one can only imagine the impact these incidents have had on individual households and the economy.

In the recent past, many businesses have incurred huge losses as a result of fire outbreaks, which have particularly taken a toll on the entertainment industry, businesses and schools.

Luckily, no one has lost their lives from either toxic smoke and poisonous gases or burns. But it could have been worse. 

The government has put in place institutions to help deal with such hazards, with the fire fighting brigade often coming in handy whenever there is an outbreak. 

However, much more needs to be done. The ministries of Disaster Preparedness and Infrastructure as well as other concerned parties need to ensure that fire safety measures are understood and strictly observed during construction, and rapid response mechanisms enhanced.

Basic fire fighting tools, such as extinguishers and smoke detectors, do not only need to be installed but should be regularly checked to ensure they are in good working conditions. Fire exits with clear signs should be mandatory.

And the owners and employees need to understand how these devices operate. Every member of the public too needs basic fire safety knowledge.

With most of these fires blamed on short-circuit, it is important that wiring is done professionally, and regularly checked. 

And businesses need to insure property to minimize losses in case of fire disaster.

Most importantly, the public have a central role to play here; first by observing fire safety measures, but also raising the alarm immediately after a fire has broken out.