The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a marginal increase in fire incidents across the country in the first half of 2025, despite key improvements in public safety, including a sharp decline in prank calls, marking significant progress.
According to the latest data, Ghana recorded 3,595 fire outbreaks between January and June 2025, a slight rise of just 19 cases (0.53%) compared to the same period in 2024. Despite this uptick, firefighters successfully salvaged over GHS 203 million worth of property, demonstrating the impact of rapid emergency responses.
One of the most notable successes was a 34.77% decrease in prank calls to the GNFS emergency lines. The number of false alarms fell from 364,020 in early 2024 to 237,470 in 2025—a trend the Service attributes to public education campaigns and stricter enforcement against misuse of emergency numbers.
“These efforts are clearly paying off,” a GNFS spokesperson said. “Reducing prank calls means our lines stay open for real emergencies, saving lives and property.”
The leading causes of fires remained consistent with previous years, including:
Electrical faults from illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloaded circuits.
Unattended cooking, especially with gas and electric stoves.
Careless use of flames (candles, mosquito coils, lighters).
Bushfires worsened by dry harmattan conditions.
Gas leakages and improper handling of LPG cylinders.
Vehicle fires due to poor maintenance and accidents.
Arson and unsafe welding practices.
The Greater Accra Region recorded the highest number of fires (628 cases), followed by Ashanti (581) and Central (408). The North East Region had the fewest incidents, with just 10 cases.
The Service linked the slight rise in fires to harmattan conditions and public non-compliance with safety measures. With another dry season approaching, the GNFS is urging Ghanaians to avoid risky behaviors and follow fire prevention guidelines.
“Every small action turning off appliances, checking gas leaks, avoiding bush burning—can prevent disasters,” the GNFS emphasized. “Let’s work together to keep Ghana safe.”
#FireSafety #StopPrankCalls #GhanaFireService
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
