Between January and October 2024, Ghana has recorded a significant rise in fire outbreaks, with 658 incidents compared to 569 during the same period in 2023.
This marks a worrying trend that has raised concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the country’s firefighting services.
At the National Launch of the 2024/2025 Bushfire Prevention Campaign, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius Kuunuor attributed the surge in fire outbreaks to human negligence, stressing that many of these incidents could have been prevented with greater public awareness and caution.
Over the years, Ghana has faced a series of devastating fire outbreaks, with several high-profile incidents causing significant damage to both residential and commercial properties. One of the most recent and alarming fires took place on November 14, 2024, at Circle in Accra, where hundreds of structures were completely engulfed by flames, displacing many residents and causing extensive property damage.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has faced mounting challenges in managing and controlling these outbreaks. Many have criticized the Fire Service’s ability to respond quickly, citing a lack of adequate fire tenders, unreliable fire hydrants, and outdated firefighting equipment. These deficiencies have contributed to delays in response times and, in some cases, the inability to contain fires before they cause widespread destruction.
The increase in fire outbreaks in 2023, coupled with the recent uptick in 2024, has intensified the call for reforms and investment in firefighting infrastructure.
During the launch of the bushfire prevention campaign, CFO Julius Kuunuor reiterated that human negligence is a primary factor behind the rise in fire incidents across the country. He urged the public to take personal responsibility for preventing fires by being more mindful of fire safety, especially in dry conditions and high-risk areas.
“We must all take responsibility for the environment we live in. A small spark, a discarded cigarette, or improperly stored flammable materials can lead to catastrophic fires. Let’s all be vigilant and ensure we are not part of the problem.”
Public Awareness and Responsibility
Kuunuor also cautioned against the improper use of flammable materials, particularly in areas with a high risk of fire, such as dry forests, bushlands, and urban environments. He emphasized that public education and vigilance are key to reducing the frequency of these outbreaks.
Minister Henry Quartey’s Appeal for Public Support
The Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, also addressed the growing concern, assuring the public that the Fire Service is fully capable of handling fire outbreaks, but emphasized that their efforts alone are not enough. He called for greater collaboration between the public and the fire service in order to effectively manage and prevent future fire incidents.
“The Fire Service is up to the task, but we need the support of every citizen to minimize the risks. Together, we can prevent fires from spiraling out of control and reduce the devastating impact they have on our communities.”
Improving Firefighting Capacity
In a bid to improve the country’s firefighting capabilities, the government has made significant strides in enhancing the resources available to the Fire Service. As part of ongoing efforts to modernize the service, 19 new pickup vehicles and four command vehicles have been donated to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
These vehicles are expected to improve response times and ensure that firefighting teams are better equipped to handle large-scale fire outbreaks particularly in the bush.
As the 2024/2025 Bushfire Prevention Campaign unfolds, the focus will be on increasing public awareness, strengthening fire safety protocols, and improving the overall capacity of firefighting services in Ghana.
The cooperation between the public, local authorities, and the Ghana National Fire Service will be crucial in reducing the impact of fires and safeguarding communities across the country.
With continued efforts and a commitment to fire prevention, Ghana can hope for a future with fewer fire outbreaks and a safer environment for all.
