10-Minute Emergency Response Saves Property Worth Millions in Eldoret

 Quick action by the Uasin Gishu County Government firefighting team on Friday averted what could have been a devastating fire incident in the Roadblock area of Kapsaos Ward, Eldoret, saving property worth millions of shillings.

The fire broke out at around 3:00 p.m. in one of the shops within the busy trading area, triggering panic among traders and residents. However, firefighters arrived at the scene within 10 minutes of the alert and swiftly brought the inferno under control, preventing it from spreading to adjacent buildings.

Business owners and local residents praised the firefighting team for their timely and professional response, noting that the area is densely built-up and a delayed intervention could have resulted in massive losses.

Confirming the incident, Uasin Gishu County Chief Fire Officer David Sitati said investigations have been launched to establish the cause of the fire. He emphasized the critical role of prompt reporting in emergency situations, saying rapid response can make the difference between minor damage and major destruction.

Mr. Sitati urged residents to utilize the county’s emergency hotlines—0710 646 464, 0532 061 185, and 0706 389 888—whenever emergencies occur.

The Uasin Gishu County firefighting unit has earned a strong reputation for efficiency and preparedness, recording an average response time of 25 to 30 minutes across Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Elgeyo Marakwet and Trans Nzoia counties. Friday’s incident, where firefighters arrived within 10 minutes, further underscored the county’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

No injuries were reported, and business operations gradually resumed after the situation was declared safe.