The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a concerning surge in fire outbreaks during the 2024 Yuletide season, with 26 incidents occurring in the Tema Region between 24 and 31 December. This trend is particularly alarming considering the GNFS recorded a total of 5,596 fire outbreaks between January and November 2024, marking a 6.43 per cent increase from the previous year.
Assistant Divisional Officer Grade I Ebenezer Kwasi Yenzu shared these statistics on Plan FM’s social and lifestyle programme, ‘Nyansapɔ Fie,’ hosted by Nana Asabea. According to Yenzu, the surge in fire incidents can be attributed to harsh weather conditions, non-compliance with fire safety measures, road traffic accidents, electrical faults, and gas leakages.
To combat this, the GNFS has launched several initiatives, including:
– National Bushfire Campaign: A campaign to raise awareness about bushfire prevention and management
– Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System: A digital system to streamline fire permit applications and certification processes
– Fire Academies and Training Schools: Two new institutions to provide training and education on fire safety and management
The GNFS is also emphasising the importance of public vigilance during festive seasons, advising against the use of fireworks, ensuring safe handling of candles and decorative lights, and switching off electrical appliances when not in use.
Additionally, the GNFS reported 177 domestic fires, 148 market fires, and 70 vehicular fires in 2024.
Assistant Divisional Officer Grade I Ebenezer Gaisie stressed the need to scale up advocacy and education on fire safety, urging people to take fire education seriously and call firefighters early in case of outbreaks.
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