by Cyrus Kalemungorok
Since 2023, the West Pokot County Fire and Rescue Department (Kenya) has implemented a sustained community fire prevention training and advocacy program aimed at improving public safety and reducing fire-related incidents. This initiative has been led by Mr. Josphat Cheptot, Chief Fire Officer, and Mr. Cyrus Kalemungorok, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, supported by a committed team of county firefighters. The program has continued consistently up to the year 2025, covering markets, towns, residential areas, and business premises through door-to-door engagements and public outreach forums.
Program Approach
A firefighter leads fire safety instruction in West Pokot county.
The training strategy has been practical, inclusive, and community-centered. Firefighters have moved from market to market, town to town, home to home, and business to business delivering fire safety education, emergency preparedness guidance, and prevention advocacy. The program has emphasized real-life risks, early fire detection, safe use of energy sources, emergency response actions, and the importance of timely communication with fire services. Community leaders, local administrators, and institutions have been actively engaged to ensure the message’s wide reach and sustainability.
Key Impacts Achieved
Here are just a few ways that this program is impacting our community:
1. Reduced Emergency-Related Accidents
The training has also contributed to a reduction in accidents during emergencies. Community members are better prepared to respond calmly and safely, reducing injuries and secondary incidents during fire and emergency situations.
2. Reduction in Structural Fire Incidents
A significant reduction in structural fire incidents has been observed across West Pokot County. Early reporting, improved prevention practices, and heightened community vigilance have played a major role in minimizing fire outbreaks and limiting losses.
3. Increased Awareness Among Political and Government Leadership
Through consistent advocacy and visibility, the political class and government officials in West Pokot County are now more aware of the critical responsibilities carried out by county firefighters. The program has highlighted firefighters’ welfare challenges, operational risks, and the need for institutional support, leading to improved understanding and engagement from leadership.
4. Recognition of Financial and Resource Needs
The outreach activities have clearly demonstrated the financial and resource gaps within the fire department. As a result, there is growing recognition of the need for adequate funding, modern firefighting equipment, protective gear, training resources, and logistical support to enhance service delivery.
5. Enhanced Public Awareness of Fire Safety Procedures
Communities across West Pokot County now have a better understanding of fire safety procedures within homes, markets, offices, and other occupancies. Residents and business owners are more informed about fire prevention measures, safe evacuation practices, and early response actions, significantly reducing risky behaviors.
6. Improved Fire Safety in Public Spaces and Offices
Firefighter Cyrus Kalemungorok leads fire prevention training. Trainings like these increase the public’s understanding of how to prevent fires in homes and offices.
Public institutions, offices, and shared spaces have shown improvements in fire safety preparedness. Many facilities have adopted basic safety measures, clearer escape routes, and improved coordination with firefighters, contributing to safer working and public environments.
7. Strengthened Relationship Between the Community and Firefighters
Regular interaction and door-to-door engagement have built strong trust and cooperation between the community and firefighters. Firefighters are now viewed not only as emergency responders but also as partners in safety, education, and prevention.
8. Increased Visibility Through Africa Fire Mission Trainings
The work of West Pokot County firefighters has gained greater visibility through empowerment initiatives such as Africa Fire Mission annual trainings. These trainings have strengthened professional capacity, boosted morale, and showcased the dedication and impact of local firefighters.
9. Easier Community Reach Through Local Leadership and Administration
Collaboration with community leaders and local administration has made it easier to reach residents with fire safety messages. This partnership has ensured continuity, cultural acceptance, and wider dissemination of fire prevention knowledge at the grassroots level.
Conclusion
The community fire prevention training program led by Chief Fire Officer Josphat Cheptot and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Cyrus Kalemungorok has had a profound and measurable impact on safety and preparedness in West Pokot County from 2023 to 2025. Through sustained advocacy, education, and community engagement, the initiative has improved fire safety awareness, strengthened community relations, reduced fire incidents, and elevated the visibility and recognition of firefighters’ work. Continued support, adequate resourcing, and strengthened partnerships will further enhance these gains and ensure a safer West Pokot County for all.