The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has urged Ghanaians to consider gifting fire extinguishers instead of hampers this Christmas to promote fire safety at home.“It is old fashion. Buy people fire extinguishers to protect themselves at home. Instead of doing hampers, you can get a nice ribbon on the fire extinguisher and give it to someone as a gift,” the GNFS Public Relations Officer, Mr.

0

Alex King Nartey, said in an interview with JoyNews.The call comes in the wake of alarming statistics, with Ghana recording 4,650 fire incidents between January and September 2024.Engaging the media house on Monday, November 18, Assistant Divisional Officer Grade One (ADO1) and Public Relations Officer for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Mr. Alex King Nartey, shed light on the factors contributing to the surging cases.

1

He highlighted the link between rapid urbanisation and the growing number of slum dwellings constructed with flammable materials such as wood.“These slum dwellings are often used for domestic purposes, and because they are mostly constructed with wooden structures, they are highly susceptible to fires,” Mr. Nartey explained.

2

“What worsens the situation is that these areas often do not adhere to fire safety regulations, which has contributed to the increase in domestic fires.”The GNFS data further revealed that electrical faults are another major cause of fire outbreaks. The rainy season, with its unstable weather conditions, increases the likelihood of short circuits, which contribute significantly to the incidents.

3

In response to these challenges, the GNFS has initiated several campaigns, including the launch of Bush Fire Awareness Week last Friday. Mr. Nartey noted the devastating impact of bushfires on food security in Ghana, as farmlands and crops are often destroyed.The Fire Service has also made strides in improving its response capacity. According to Mr.

4

Nartey, over 80% of previously out-of-service fire tenders are now operational, boosting response times. However, he stressed the need for new fire trucks and rapid intervention vehicles to enhance the GNFS’s efficiency.

5