Fire and Rescue Officers of the Tema Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service demonstrated exceptional commitment and operational readiness as they responded to a series of emergencies triggered by the torrential rains that swept across the Tema Metropolis and its adjoining communities within a 24-hour period.
The heavy downpour resulted in widespread flooding across several areas, including Tema, Prampram, Dawhenya, Afienya and Appolonia, leaving many residents stranded and causing significant disruption to transportation and commercial activities.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, personnel from the Region’s nine (9) active Fire Stations remained fully deployed, responding promptly to a total of twenty-three (23) emergency incidents within the period.
The incidents comprised six (6) fire outbreaks, all of which received swift intervention from firefighters, preventing further destruction to life and property.
In addition, strong winds accompanying the rains uprooted seven (7) trees, many of which fell across major roads, obstructing vehicular movement and posing danger to motorists. Firefighters worked tirelessly to remove the fallen trees and restore safe passage on the affected roads.
Rescue operations formed a significant part of the Service’s response efforts. Fire and Rescue personnel attended to eight (8) flood-related incidents, successfully rescuing twelve (12) persons who had become trapped by rising floodwaters. Furthermore, at Tema Newtown, where flooding was particularly severe, firefighters assisted more than fifty (50) residents to safety, helping to avert what could have been a more devastating situation.
Regrettably, one person is reported missing following the collapse of a paved drain used as a pedestrian walkway at the Tema Community 1 Market. The victim, a female trader believed to be in her 50s, is suspected to have been swept away by the fast-moving floodwaters after the structure gave way. Search efforts and investigations are ongoing.
In a separate incident, a perimeter wall collapsed onto an LPG gas installation as a result of the heavy rains. Firefighters quickly secured the area, managed the potential hazard and prevented what could have escalated into a major fire or explosion.
The Tema Regional Command commends its officers for their professionalism, dedication and resilience throughout the emergency operations. The Command also urges members of the public to exercise extreme caution during periods of heavy rainfall by avoiding floodwaters, keeping away from weakened structures and staying clear of drains and waterways.
The Ghana National Fire Service remains committed to protecting lives and property and encourages the public to promptly report all emergencies through the appropriate emergency channels (0303202554/112/192) for immediate response.
