Over 5,000 fire outbreaks were recorded across the country in 2024, the Assistant Divisional Officer at the Public Relations Department of the Ghana National Fire Service (ADO1), Alex King Nartey has revealed.

The fire disasters comprised domestic, electrical, commercial, and bushfires.

Mr Nartey made this known in an interview with AGTV News. He explained that the service was intensifying public education on fire safety and implementing measures to curb the increasing incidents.

Fire safety measures

According to Mr Nartey, the fire service has deployed officers to patrol high-risk areas such as markets, particularly at night, to prevent further outbreaks. 

Referring to recent fires in Kantamanto, Kumasi, Tamale, and Ashaiman he expressed optimism that these measures will reduce fire incidents this year.

Challenges hindering efficiency

Mr Nartey observed that despite some successes chalked up by the fire service the organisation is grappling with logistical challenges including outdated and broken-down fire equipment, like the fire tender in Konongo which significantly hinders response times. 

“This often forces fire teams to travel long distances, delaying their ability to tackle outbreaks promptly” he said.

He also noted that the public's lukewarm reception to fire safety education and the problem of prank calls strained the service and divert resources away from genuine emergencies. 

“Look at how the fire fighter at the Kantamanto incident was treated, others ignore us, claiming they're busy, yet they are the ones most affected” he further stated.

Causes,concerns

Mr Nartey cited improper disposal of fire materials, cooking in market areas, and possible arson as key contributors to the frequent fire outbreaks. 

He emphasised the need for citizens to adopt preventive measures and work closely with the fire service.

Urgent appeal

Mr Nartey called on the government to prioritise equipping the fire service with essential logistics, including Dual Purpose Tenders, Water Tankers, Rapid Intervention Vehicles, and other utility vehicles. 

He also appealed to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to prioritise the establishment of fire stations in their jurisdictions and urged citizens to familiarise themselves with emergency numbers and avoid prank calls.

“We need the government’s support to procure the necessary equipment. Without it, our ability to work efficiently remains compromised," he pleaded.