The recent fire incident at a United Bank for Africa (UBA) branch in Lagos has sparked fresh concerns about the safe installation and management of inverter systems in homes and offices across the country.
Viral videos circulated online yesterday showed panicked customers and staff leaping from the windows of a multi-storey UBA building in an attempt to escape a raging fire. The chaotic scene raised fears and questions about emergency preparedness and the underlying cause of the blaze.
According to confirmed reports, the fire originated in the inverter room located in the basement of the building before spreading rapidly to other parts of the facility. The incident, which is still under investigation, has highlighted a critical but often overlooked danger—improperly installed or maintained inverter systems.
While inverters are increasingly popular as an alternative power source, especially amid Nigeria’s power challenges, experts warn that they can pose serious fire risks if not properly handled.
⚠️ Experts Warn: Inverters Can Be a Fire Hazard
In light of the UBA fire, safety experts and concerned citizens have called for greater public awareness of the potential risks associated with inverter systems. Here are key safety precautions every inverter user should observe:
✅ 7 Essential Inverter Safety Tips:
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Install your inverter and battery in a well-ventilated space to prevent overheating. Avoid storing them in closed cupboards or unventilated rooms.
Keep Away from Flammable Items
Do not store petrol, papers, curtains, or any flammable materials near your inverter setup.
Professional Installation Only
Always engage certified technicians for installation. Avoid DIY installations from online tutorials, as improper wiring can spark fires.
Monitor Power Load
Avoid overloading your inverter with appliances beyond its rated capacity. This can cause overheating and potential electrical faults.
Check Batteries Regularly
Inspect for signs of leaks, corrosion, or swelling. Replace weak or damaged batteries promptly.
Install Safety Devices
Use circuit breakers, fuses, and surge protectors. Keep a CO₂ fire extinguisher nearby, especially if the inverter is installed indoors.
Routine Maintenance
Schedule regular inspections to check for dust buildup, loose connections, or corroded terminals.
According to safety advocates, many Nigerian homes and offices unknowingly use substandard or counterfeit inverter components, significantly increasing the risk of fires. Inferior wires, batteries, and chargers often fail under pressure, resulting in disasters like the one seen at the Lagos UBA branch.
🚨 Don’t Wait for a Disaster
“An inverter system is not something to experiment with,” one safety campaigner warned. “If you wouldn’t wire your home by watching YouTube tutorials, don’t try it with your inverter either.”
Users are strongly encouraged to verify the authenticity of their inverter equipment and consult professionals for installation and servicing.
📢 A Call to Action
If you or someone you know uses an inverter at home or in the office, now is the time to review safety protocols. Conduct a thorough check, and if anything seems off, call a certified technician immediately.
As the Lagos incident shows, a fire can start without warning — and the consequences can be fatal.
Share this message to help raise awareness. Prevent the next tragedy.
🧯 Safety First, Always.
Have you checked your inverter lately?
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