A report by JoyNews indicates that Ghana has recorded an alarming 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.

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. “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.

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. 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.

“We’ve made significant progress in improving our response time with more fire tenders on the roads. However, the long-term solution lies in acquiring new fire trucks and rapid intervention vehicles, and we hope that the public will consider donating towards this cause. While the government has a responsibility, it cannot do it all. At the end of the day, it’s the people who are affected, so we encourage everyone to chip in and help protect their communities,” Mr. Nartey said.

Ahead of the festive season and the 2024 elections, the GNFS has intensified its education efforts and operational preparedness. Officers on leave have been recalled to active duty, and fire safety patrols will be conducted in fire-prone zones.

“We have intensified our education efforts and are preparing for the upcoming festive season and elections when fire incidents are likely to rise. We’re also stepping up patrols and inspections to ensure that people are following fire safety protocols,” Mr. Nartey added.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) officially launched its 2024/2025 National Bush Fire Prevention Campaign on Friday, November 15, at the National Headquarters in Accra.

The campaign, themed “Effective Bush Fire Prevention: Stakeholder’s Role in Ensuring a Greener Tomorrow,” emphasizes the need for collective efforts to protect farmlands and natural vegetation from bushfires, a growing environmental concern in Ghana.

The event was graced by the Special Guest of Honour, Henry Quartey, the Minister for the Interior, alongside government officials, members of the Fire Service Council, and representatives from Fire Aid UK.

A lively skit by the Fire Volunteer Group from the Nsawam Municipality also highlighted the importance of bushfire prevention in a creative and engaging way.

This launch underscores the GNFS’s dedication to environmental conservation and public safety, urging all stakeholders to actively participate in safeguarding the country’s green resources for future generations.

As fire incidents continue to threaten lives and property, the GNFS is urging all Ghanaians to take personal responsibility for fire safety, particularly in areas with inadequate infrastructure.