In the initial six months of this year, the Greater Accra Regional Fire Command reported 66 fatalities and 24 injuries due to fire-related incidents and other associated events.
This marks a slight decrease from the previous year’s numbers, which recorded 69 deaths and 162 injuries. In addition, a total of 662 fire outbreaks were documented during this period, reflecting a 3% rise compared to the same period in the previous year, mainly attributed to human behavior.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Grade One, Roberta Aggrey Ghanson, the Accra Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), revealed these statistics during a meeting with journalists in Accra.
The discussion aimed to address fire-related issues and raise awareness about fire safety within the region. The campaign, themed “60 years of existence, fire safety: the choice for a safer environment,” brought together various fire command officials and officers.
ACFO I Ghanson emphasized that domestic fires accounted for the majority of incidents, totaling 234 occurrences compared to 197 in the previous year.
She attributed this increase to human behavior factors. Acknowledging the media’s vital role in public education, she stated that the media has greatly contributed to conveying the GNFS’s mission.
During the first half of 2023, the regional command responded to 22 rescue incidents and 22 road traffic accidents. The estimated cost of damages resulting from fire outbreaks in the same period amounted to GH¢34,590,914.00.
The GNFS intends to enhance fire safety awareness by collaborating with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, as well as market women. Other planned activities include inspections of national installations, simulations, and engagements with operators of event centers, clubhouses, drinking spots, and nightclubs.
Divisional Officer Grade One (DOI) Evans Osei Owusu, the Accra Regional Fire Safety Officer, emphasized the importance of media involvement in addressing fire safety concerns. He called on journalists to join forces with the GNFS in their educational endeavors to safeguard lives and property.
DOI Joseph Kofi Forson, the Deputy Director of Operations, highlighted some challenges affecting GNFS operations, including accessibility, inadequate water sources, and negative attitudes. He urged the public to prioritize fire safety as a collective responsibility.
A representative from the Ghana Institute of Architects, Mr. David Parkins, commended GNFS personnel for their dedicated efforts in safeguarding lives and property, even in the face of personal risk.
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