The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the Tema Region recorded 536 fire outbreaks between January and November 2025, marking a decrease from the 616 cases reported during the same period in 2024.
This was disclosed by Divisional Officer II (DO II) Ebenezer Yenzu, the Tema Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, during an interview in Tema.
He explained that of the 536 incidents, 170 occurred in residential homes, while 115 were recorded in commercial premises, with most cases resulting from human activities.
DO II Yenzu called on the public to take fire prevention seriously, especially during the Christmas season when the risk of fires is higher.
He advised residents to be cautious while cooking, carry out regular electrical inspections, keep flammable items away from heat sources, and ensure that fire safety equipment is available and functional.
He warned against leaving cooking unattended, placing curtains or towels near open flames, allowing grease to build up on cooking appliances, and leaving electrical devices switched on when homes or shops are unattended.
The Fire Service PRO also cautioned against overloading electrical sockets, using faulty electrical appliances, and ignoring damaged electrical cords. He added that matches and lighters should be kept out of the reach of children.
Additionally, DO II Yenzu advised residents to place candles at least 12 inches away from flammable materials and to put them out before going to sleep.
He stressed the importance of installing smoke alarms in homes, markets, offices, and other public spaces to allow for early fire detection.
He further encouraged households and businesses to own fire extinguishers, keep them within easy reach, and learn how to use them properly.
DO II Yenzu reminded the public that the Ghana National Fire Service can be reached through emergency numbers 112 or 192 for swift response to fire emergencies.
