From January to October 2024, Ghana has seen a notable increase in fire outbreaks, recording 658 incidents, up from 569 during the same period in 2023.
This highlights a troubling trend that has sparked concerns about public safety and the efficiency of the country’s firefighting services.
During the National Launch of the 2024/2025 Bushfire Prevention Campaign, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius Kuunuor attributed the rise in fire outbreaks to human negligence. He emphasized that many of these incidents could have been prevented with increased public awareness and caution.
Over the years, Ghana has experienced numerous devastating fires, with several high-profile incidents causing major damage to both residential and commercial properties. A particularly alarming fire occurred on November 14, 2024, at Circle in Accra, where flames engulfed hundreds of buildings, displacing many residents and causing significant property destruction.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has been confronted with increasing difficulties in managing and controlling fire outbreaks. Criticism has been directed at the Fire Service’s response capabilities, with concerns raised over the insufficient number of fire tenders, unreliable fire hydrants, and outdated equipment. These shortcomings have led to delays in response times and, in certain instances, prevented fires from being contained before they spread extensively.
The surge in fire outbreaks in 2023, followed by a further increase in 2024, has amplified calls for reforms and increased investment in firefighting infrastructure.
At the launch of the bushfire prevention campaign, CFO Julius Kuunuor stressed that human negligence is a key driver of the rising number of fire incidents nationwide. He called on the public to take greater responsibility in preventing fires, particularly in dry conditions and high-risk areas, by being more conscious of fire safety.
“We all have a role to play in safeguarding our environment. A single spark, a discarded cigarette, or improperly stored flammable materials can spark devastating fires. Let’s remain vigilant and make sure we’re not contributing to the problem,” he urged.
Public Awareness and Responsibility
Kuunuor further cautioned against the reckless handling of flammable materials, particularly in fire-prone areas such as dry forests, bushlands, and urban environments. He emphasized that increasing public awareness and fostering vigilance are essential to curbing the frequency of fire outbreaks.
Minister Henry Quartey’s Appeal for Public Support
Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, also responded to the increasing concern, assuring the public that the Fire Service is fully equipped to handle fire outbreaks. However, he stressed that their efforts alone are insufficient. He called for stronger collaboration between the public and the Fire Service to effectively manage and prevent future incidents.
“The Fire Service is ready to tackle the challenges, but we need the support of every citizen to reduce the risks. Together, we can prevent fires from escalating and minimize their devastating impact on our communities,” he stated
