More than 1,000 students and teachers from ETEFOP TSS Ruhengeri in Musanze District received fire prevention and safety training on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, during an awareness campaign organized by the Rwanda National Police Fire and Rescue Brigade in the Northern Province.
The training took place at the vocational and technical school located in Cyabagarura Cell, Musanze Sector, and focused on equipping participants with practical knowledge on how to prevent fires and respond effectively in emergency situations.
School director Father Remedi Didier Dushyirehamwe thanked the Rwanda National Police for providing what he described as valuable and life-saving knowledge to both students and staff.
“We are grateful to those who trained us and to the institution that sent them,” he said. “It is not only us who have benefited from this knowledge. We will also share it with our families and friends so that more people can learn how to prevent fires and protect themselves.”
Police officials said the training is part of a broader community outreach program aimed at educating citizens on fire prevention, public safety, and crime prevention.
Participants were reminded of their responsibility in preventing fires and were taught how to react in case a fire breaks out.
Particular attention was given to the proper use of fire extinguishers and safety measures related to cooking gas, especially since some of the students are pursuing culinary studies.
The trainees were also shown practical techniques for responding quickly during emergencies and minimizing damage before professional rescue teams arrive.
Speaking during the session, the Northern Province Police spokesperson, Chief Inspector of Police Ignace Ngirabakunzi, urged participants to put the knowledge they received into practice and share it with others.
“Fire outbreaks are among the causes of insecurity,” he said. “The knowledge you received is important in preventing fires, protecting yourselves, and knowing how to respond when a fire occurs, whether by using fire extinguishers or other methods you have been taught.”
Authorities noted that fire outbreaks tend to increase during the dry season, particularly in urban areas such as Musanze.
Many incidents are caused by old electrical wiring, welding activities, gas explosions, or simple human negligence.
The Rwanda National Police says it continues to prioritize educating young people and communities so they grow up understanding their role in preventing accidents, protecting lives, and contributing to public safety.
