A Fire Service Safety Officer, ADO1 Francis Kofi Atiso, has urged the public to take fire prevention seriously, warning that seemingly ordinary habits and acts of carelessness can quickly lead to devastating fire outbreaks.
Speaking on Nyansapo Fie on Plan B FM, hosted by Akosua Gyamfua, ADO1 Atiso said although fire remains essential for everyday activities such as cooking, its improper handling can have serious consequences.
He explained that fires are classified into different categories, including Class A fires involving solid materials that leave ashes when burnt, Class B fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol and diesel, Class C fires involving gases such as LPG, and Class D fires involving combustible metals such as potassium.
According to him, common causes of fire outbreaks include arson, ignorance, carelessness, forgetfulness, rushing, electrical overloads, accidents and natural causes.
He described arson as the deliberate setting of another person’s property on fire, citing the use of petrol to intentionally burn property as an example.
ADO1 Atiso also raised concerns about the condition of gas cylinders, warning that rust and corrosion could increase the risk of gas leakage and fire.
He explained that a sound resembling sand when a cylinder is lifted could sometimes be an indication of corrosion, urging households to regularly check the condition of their cylinders and replace damaged or compromised ones.
The Fire Service officer further cautioned the public against placing fire near wooden materials, curtains and other flammable items.
He advised people not to leave an area immediately after setting a fire for any purpose but to ensure the activity has been completely extinguished and the surroundings are safe before leaving.
He also warned against throwing cigarette butts carelessly, stressing the need for proper disposal to prevent accidental fires.
On electrical safety, ADO1 Atiso urged the public to avoid overloading sockets, particularly when using appliances that generate heat, including electric kettles and microwave ovens.
He also advised individuals who sell or store petrol to keep the product in safe locations away from heat, flames and other sources of ignition.
Parents and guardians, he added, must keep matches, lighters and other materials capable of starting fires out of the reach of children to prevent accidental outbreaks.
ADO1 Francis Kofi Atiso stressed that fire prevention begins with individual responsibility, urging the public to remain conscious of their surroundings and adopt safe practices when handling fire, gas, fuel and electrical appliances.
He said taking simple precautions in homes, workplaces and public spaces can help prevent avoidable fires and protect lives and property.
By: Lydia Owusu
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