The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) is calling on the public to take fire safety recommendations seriously, warning that repeated outbreaks are often the result of ignored advice.
Speaking on Ebaanosen on Plan B 104.5 FM, Divisional Officer Grade Desmond Arthur emphasized that firefighting is only one part of the service’s broader mandate. “Our work doesn’t end when the fire is out,” he said. “We investigate the cause, document our findings, and issue safety recommendations to prevent future incidents.”
According to Officer Arthur, many people assume the Fire Service’s job is limited to extinguishing flames. However, he explained that after every fire incident, officers conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause. These findings are compiled into official reports, which often include practical safety measures for individuals, households, and businesses.
Unfortunately, he noted, these recommendations are frequently ignored. “We keep seeing the same types of fires in the same places. That tells us people are not following the advice we give after investigations,” he lamented.
The consequences of this neglect are severe. Fires that could have been prevented recur, leading to loss of property, livelihoods, and sometimes lives. Officer Arthur stressed that many of these incidents are avoidable if the public would simply adhere to the guidance provided.
“Sometimes it’s faulty wiring, overloaded sockets, or storing flammable materials carelessly. We point these out, but if nothing changes, the fire will come back,” he warned.
The GNFS is urging all Ghanaians homeowners, landlords, shop owners, and institutions to treat fire safety advice as essential, not optional. Officer Arthur encouraged communities to invite the Fire Service for safety education and inspections, especially in high-risk areas.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility. We’re ready to help, but we need the public to meet us halfway,” he concluded.
By: Delali/Planbfmonline.com
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