The Ghana National Fire Service has urged the public to prioritise fire prevention and safety measures, including installing smoke detectors and keeping fire extinguishers in their homes to help reduce fire-related risks.
Speaking on the role of the Fire Service in society on Nyansapo Fie, Plan B FM’s family, relationship, and lifestyle programme, hosted by Ohene Kinnah. The guest, ADO1 Zakari Paul, explained that the service’s core mandate is to prevent fires and protect lives.
He outlined some of the service’s responsibilities, including providing technical advice on building plans and fire extinguishers, educating the public on fire safety, conducting extrication exercises, training fire volunteers, and offering humanitarian services He added that the Service also plays an important role in national development through rescue operations during natural disasters and other emergencies.
ADO1 Zakari Paul advised the public to switch off electrical appliances and unplug them when leaving for work. He stressed that fire spreads quickly and urged people to contact the Fire Service immediately when an outbreak occurs instead of first attempting to put it out themselves. He also encouraged households to acquire fire extinguishers and install smoke and heat detectors for early warning.
Addressing public concerns about the response of firefighters, he dismissed claims that the service deliberately delays in responding to emergencies and clarified that its personnel do not charge for their services. He warned that anyone demanding payment for firefighting services should be reported. He further explained that firefighters understand the different types of fires and use appropriate methods to tackle them, adding that not all dirty water is suitable for extinguishing fires. He also encouraged the public to insure their properties against fire damage.
By: Lydia Owusu
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