Tema: The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Tema Region, has intensified public education on fire-related issues as part of activities to mark this year's Fire Safety Week. The initiative, themed 'Fire Safety, a Key to National Development and a Foundation for our Safety and Security,' aims to raise awareness about fire prevention and safety measures among various sectors, including churches, markets, and business centers.
According to Ghana News Agency, Divisional Officer III (DOIII) Ebenezer Yenzu, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GNFS Tema Region, highlighted the series of activities planned to enhance education during the week. DOIII Yenzu detailed that the program kicked off with fire safety engagements at churches across all districts on Sunday, accompanied by a float within the Ashaiman township to raise awareness among residents about fire safety.
He noted that the campaign involves engaging with churches to educate congregants on fire prevention strategies, as many churches use electrical appliances, candles, and generators that could potentially cause fires if not managed properly. The Service is also set to hold media engagements and conduct inspections of selected premises, including malls, garages, hotels, pubs, and warehouses. Visits to mosques and lorry parks for sensitization are also part of the agenda.
The PRO mentioned that the team visited markets to educate traders on handling flammable goods such as cooking gas and electrical equipment, addressing the issue of market fires in Ghana that have led to the destruction of goods and impacted traders' livelihoods. He emphasized the critical importance of fire prevention, stating that education remains the most effective tool in reducing fire outbreaks, which are often caused by human error, including negligence, electrical faults, and improper handling of flammable materials.
DOIII Yenzu urged the public to cooperate with the GNFS in the education campaign by attending training sessions, implementing fire safety recommendations, and reporting fire hazards to authorities for prompt action.
