Assistant Chief Fire Officer I (ACFO I) Frederick Ohemeng, the Western Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), has advised the public to desist from attacking firefighters in the discharge of their mandates.
He said there had been some incidents of unwarranted mob attacks on firefighters, fire appliances and fire stations in some parts of the country, and that such acts would not be countenanced any longer.
He gave the advice when the Western Regional Fire Command held a durbar to climax this year’s International Firefighters Day (IFFD) celebration, at its headquarters in Fijai.
It was held on the theme: “The contribution of the firefighter to safety, national security and sustainable development.”
The durbar was attended by both active and retired Fire Service personnel, representatives from sister security agencies, civilians, and students.
ACFO I Ohemeng said firefighters played pivotal roles in maintaining national security as they worked closely with other law enforcement agencies to prevent and respond to acts which could threaten the stability of the country.
He said: “We are more than just emergency responders, we are guardians of our communities by putting our lives on the line every day to protect the public from fire hazards, natural disasters and other emergencies.”
The Western Regional Fire Commander stated that they contributed significantly to sustainable development through their community outreach programmes and educational initiatives about fire prevention measures such as proper use of extinguishers, safe cooking practices with Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), good housekeeping, and safe use of electrical equipment, among others.
“These appellations to firefighters represent a great recognition of our noble sacrifices as far back as the 19th century. However, after several generations, firefighters in our part of the world are yet to feel appreciated by the people we risk our lives to serve,” ACFO I Ohemeng noted.
He, therefore, called on the public to see the GNFS as key stakeholders in keeping communities safe, and desist from acts that hindered their ability to work to deliver on their mandates.
Mr. Joe Ghartey, the Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency, who was the guest of honour for the event, reiterated the need for the citizenry to appreciate the work of the fire officers, saying they were the guardians of lives and property against fire hazards.
He said their unwavering commitment to saving lives and property was a testament to their dedication, sacrifice, and bravery in keeping communities safe from fire and its related destruction.
As part of the event, prayers were said for the Officers and Men of the GNFS, fallen firefighters and their families, and firefighters affected by fire incidents in the course of their duties.
There was also a laying of remembrance coins in honour of all personnel who sacrificed and dedicated their lives through firefighting.
GNA
MSM/KOA/GRB
7 May 2024
