The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has launched a crucial fire safety education campaign targeting traders and other stakeholders in markets across the country.
The initiative, aimed at enhancing fire prevention and response capabilities, kicked off on Friday, January 18th, at the Adidome Market.
Led by Assistant Divisional Officer (ADO 1) George Lumorvi, the GNFS team conducted comprehensive training sessions. Key topics covered included:
- Safe handling of domestic gas cylinders
- Common causes of fires
- Fire classes and appropriate extinguishing methods
- Crucial emergency contact numbers
The team emphasized the vital importance of establishing volunteer task forces within markets and hiring certified electricians for all electrical installations to significantly reduce the risk of fire outbreaks.
This educational drive will be expanded to other markets within the district, including Mafi Kumase. However, the GNFS Adidome Command faces a significant obstacle: the absence of fire hydrants at strategic locations within the district. ADO Lumorvi appealed to the government for urgent support in addressing this critical issue, emphasizing its crucial role in effective firefighting operations. He also urged the community to actively cooperate with the GNFS in its efforts to prevent and respond to fires.
Mr. Guggisberg Fiagbenu, the Assembly Member for the Adidome Electoral Area, encouraged the youth of Central Tongu to actively participate in voluntary fire-fighting training programs offered by the District Fire Command. He stressed that this training would equip young people with essential firefighting knowledge and empower them to take proactive measures to prevent fires. He also committed to collaborating with the fire service and the education directorate to establish impactful fire cadet programs in local schools.
This initiative underscores the GNFS’s commitment to strengthening fire safety education across the nation, particularly in the wake of recent fire incidents in various regions. By raising awareness among traders and market stakeholders, the GNFS aims to significantly reduce the occurrence of fire outbreaks and minimize the devastating impact of such incidents.
The session was well-received, with traders, community leaders, and other stakeholders actively participating and expressing their appreciation for the initiative. They pledged their full support to the GNFS in its ongoing efforts to promote fire safety within their communities.
