Medical experts have urged Nigerians to equip their homes with basic first-aid materials and medical devices and to acquire essential emergency-response skills to reduce the devastating consequences of domestic accidents.
The experts gave the advice at the 2026 Annual Health Talk organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Zion Chapel, Lagos Province 57, Oregun, Ikeja, with the theme: “Handling Domestic Emergencies in the Home.”
The programme brought together professionals in general medicine, pharmacy, paediatrics and anaesthesia to educate members of the congregation and participants on how to prevent and appropriately respond to common emergencies that can occur in the home.
Domestic emergencies, ranging from burns, choking, falls, cuts and bleeding to poisoning, convulsions, allergic reactions, snake and scorpion bites, can escalate rapidly when victims do not receive appropriate first aid or professional medical attention.
The annual health programme, which was initiated in 2014 by Pastor Godfrey Iluobe and his wife, Pastor Folakemi Iluobe, has consistently provided a platform for medical and health professionals to educate members of the public on healthy living, disease prevention and practical approaches to managing health challenges.
This year’s edition focused particularly on emergency situations that households may encounter and the appropriate steps to take before professional medical assistance arrives.
Speaking on burns, choking and trauma, Dr. (Mrs.) Dorka Bekee, Consultant Paediatrician at Reddington Hospital, Ikeja, said burns remain common household injuries, particularly among children. She explained that burns could result from hot water, cooking oil, fire, steam, electrical equipment and hot cooking utensils.