The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reminded the public to be wary of activities that can lead to domestic fire outbreaks during the festivities.
Mrs Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sarpong, the Chief Fire Officer (CFO), said activities such as smoking, the use of LPG gas, electricity among others were the major cause of domestic fire outbreaks recorded.
The CFO made the call in an interview ahead of the festive season.
She said the Service as part of intensified measures had activated home fire educators to engage residents in communities, following the high incidence of domestic fires recorded across the country.
The educators would help sensitise households on the safe use of electricity, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and gas appliances, as well as the proper management of Christmas decorations to prevent placing them near heat sources.
Mrs Ntow-Sarpong noted that in addition, a drowning prevention team had been deployed to beaches and swimming points nationwide to provide swift response and avert drowning incidents during recreational activities.
She said to address frequent vehicular fires on highways, the GNFS had commenced a nationwide enforcement exercise to ensure that all private and commercial vehicles were equipped with effective, certified fire extinguishers.
The GNFS has also collaborated with key transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), to train drivers on the safe and effective use of fire extinguishers to enable them intervene within the first five minutes of a vehicle fire to prevent extensive damage.
The CFO reminded the public on fire detection and prevention in homes and buildings, adding that the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2249, which had been in force since 2016, mandates all premises, including residential buildings, to install basic fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and smoke alarms.
The smoke alarms are intended to provide early warning, particularly at night, while extinguishers are to help occupants control fires at their initial stages to minimise damage.
She said although attempts to roll out the initiative through a public-private partnership encountered challenges, the GNFS had begun implementing a phased “nuclear fire extinguisher” project and would, in due course, enforce compliance in domestic premises.
The CFO noted that these measures were critical to protecting lives and property from the devastating effects of fire, hence adherence was crucial.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
Dec 31, 2025
