By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Freetown City Council (FCC), has extended its condolences and support to the victims of the tragic Brook Street fire disaster that claimed four lives and left six households devastated. During a visit to the affected community on January 7, 2025, the Deputy Mayor, Kweku Lisk Esq., accompanied by councilors Unisa Kamara and Tutu Bailor, the FCC Head of Disaster Management- Abass Kamara, and other staff provided a modest donation of six bags of rice and financial assistance to the victims.
Deputy Mayor Lisk conveyed FCC’s deep sorrow over the loss of lives and the destruction of property. Speaking on behalf of the Mayor, he acknowledged the grief and pain endured by the victims and assured them of FCC’s commitment to standing with the community during their challenging time. “We mourn with you and extend our deepest condolences. The loss of loved ones is irreplaceable, and we understand the immense pain this disaster has caused,” he said.
The fire, which occurred on November 30, 2024, erupted suddenly, leaving the Brook Street community in shock. Among the victims were an 18-year-old College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) student, and an 8-year-old boy, both of whom tragically lost their lives in the fire.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started after a transformer malfunctioned, triggering electrical sparks. A cable in front of the house caught fire, and despite the frantic efforts of residents to contain the flames, the blaze spread rapidly, engulfing the building.
One of the survivors recounted the horrifying moments, describing how the fire consumed the roof within minutes, leaving no chance to salvage belongings or escape safely. “We did all we could to stop it, but the fire was too fast. It’s a loss we’ll never forget,” said the survivor.
The FCC team visited the site as part of its disaster management responsibilities and to reinforce the council’s support for affected communities. Abass Kamara, FCC’s Head of Disaster Management, explained that whilst the council’s resources are limited, their focus remains on providing immediate relief and long-term recovery assistance to victims of such disasters.
“Tragedies like this are a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and community collaboration. We urge all citizens to take precautions, especially with electrical equipment, and report faulty infrastructure to authorities,” Kamara stated.
Councilor Unisa Kamara emphasized the need for collective action to prevent future disasters. He also called on the government, private sector, and humanitarian organizations to support the victims in rebuilding their lives. “FCC alone cannot meet the extensive needs of the victims, but together, we can make a difference,” he said.
During the visit, representatives from the six affected households received six bags of rice and a small financial donation to help alleviate their immediate needs. While the contributions may not fully address the victims’ losses, they were appreciated as a gesture of solidarity.
The Brook Street fire has reignited conversations about the urgent need for improved electrical infrastructure and effective fire safety measures in Freetown. Many residents have called on the government and utility companies to prioritize the maintenance of transformers and electrical lines to prevent such tragedies.
The FCC’s visit highlights the importance of community support during times of crisis. As the victims begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives, FCC has urged citizens to come together to offer further assistance and raise awareness about disaster prevention and preparedness.
This incident serves as a sombre reminder of the fragility of life and the collective responsibility to protect vulnerable communities from preventable disasters.
