Fire Service urges vigilance amid rising Harmattan fire incidents

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has called on the public to be extra cautious as fire incidents rise nationwide, noting that the Harmattan season has created favourable conditions for avoidable fires.

In an interview with Citi News on Wednesday, February 4, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, DO II Desmond Ackah, advised against the use of open flames and the careless burning of refuse, especially in residential areas, mechanic workshops and markets where waste disposal remains a challenge.

He explained that the dry and windy Harmattan weather makes both natural and artificial materials easily combustible, allowing fires to spread rapidly once ignited.

As a result, he appealed to the public to act promptly by reporting fire risks early, rather than waiting for them to develop into serious emergencies.

“If we notice any activity by a neighbour or anyone around us that could spark a fire, or poses a fire hazard, we should not remain passive,” he said. “We must speak up and swiftly alert the relevant authorities so the necessary measures can be taken to prevent fires during this period.”