The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has instituted a nationwide 24-hour surveillance system across major markets and mapped flood-prone fuel stations as part of efforts to reduce fire risks and improve disaster preparedness.
This initiative, announced in the Ministry of the Interior’s recent sector briefing on Monday, July 14, is aligned with the government’s 24-Hour Economy programme. The GNFS says the move is aimed at mitigating the risks of fire outbreaks and flooding, particularly in high-density trading areas and fuel station zones.
“The Service has instituted a 24-hour surveillance across major markets and mapped flood-prone fuel stations nationwide to mitigate risks of fire and flooding,” the Minister stated.
According to the Ministry, the Service responded to a total of 3,841 fire outbreaks across the country, successfully salvaging properties worth millions of cedis. It also attended to 851 road traffic collisions, rescuing multiple trapped victims as part of its emergency response mandate.
In addition to its firefighting duties, the GNFS conducted 14,234 fire safety inspections and issued 12,418 fire certificates; including 2,944 renewals, within the reporting period.
To boost fire prevention in rural communities, 5,214 fire volunteers were trained nationwide to support bushfire control efforts.
READ: Ghana Prisons Service rolls out digital skills, 24-hour productivity programme
To enhance welfare and morale among personnel, the Service has launched a Health and Safety Fund with an initial capital of GH¢200,000 and introduced an insurance package to cover staff who suffer critical injuries or death in the line of duty.
The GNFS also inaugurated a National Safety Awards Day, which will be observed annually on July 11. This year, 60 individuals and organisations were honoured for exemplary compliance with fire safety protocols.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
