Security agencies in Ondo State have urged residents to remain vigilant and observe necessary safety precautions during the ember months, stressing that the period should not be regarded as inherently dangerous.

The agencies noted that public safety during the September-to-December period depended largely on vigilance, intelligence gathering, cooperation with security operatives and compliance with safety regulations.

The ember months are traditionally associated with increased security concerns, road accidents and criminal activities, often attributed to heightened commercial activities, festive celebrations and increased movement of people ahead of the yuletide.

However, security experts say the perception that the period is inherently more dangerous should not be allowed to create unnecessary fear among residents.

The Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps in Ondo State, Daniel Aidamenbor, said the command was intensifying public sensitisation and collaborating with other security agencies to protect residents and visitors.

He explained that the command was strengthening intelligence gathering and surveillance operations to identify potential threats and prevent criminal activities.

Aidamenbor added that cooperation among security agencies remained essential to maintaining peace and responding effectively to emerging security challenges.

Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Jimoh Abayomi, said the command was taking necessary steps to ensure a peaceful festive period.

He urged residents to cooperate with security operatives and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate authorities.

Providing further insight, the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Fire Service, Chief Superintendent Oluwatosin Ogunnaike, said public safety during the ember months should be approached through practical risk awareness rather than fear or unverified assumptions.

He stressed the importance of personal vigilance, responsible conduct and cooperation with relevant safety agencies.

As the festive season approaches, the security agencies maintained that a peaceful ember period would depend not only on the presence of security personnel but also on the vigilance and responsible actions of residents.