LOCAL LANGUAGE MEDIA FOR COMMUNITY EDUCATION ON BURN RISKS: A STUDY OF LAGOS FIRE OUTBREAKS

The increasing frequency of fire outbreaks following oil tanker explosions poses a significant public safety challenge, particularly in urban centers such as Lagos. This study examines the critical role local languages and cultural contexts play in designing effective media campaigns to mitigate the risks of burn injuries associated with fire outbreaks. Anchored on Health Belief Model and Cultural Dimensions Theory, data were drawn from social media analysis of X (Twitter) reactions from the public, highlighting the emotional responses and calls for accountability following fire incidents. Findings from the analysis show that integrating cultural distinctions into risk communication significantly enhances the resonance of messages with diverse audiences. Consequently, the study concluded that prioritizing linguistic inclusivity and cultural relevance is essential for enhancing public safety campaigns. Hence, the study recommends that government authorities implement multilingual strategies, encourage collaboration among community leaders, leverage traditional media, provide targeted training for NGOs, and conduct continuous evaluations to improve campaign effectiveness.