Crime

23 die, 66 others injured in fire outbreaks

Twenty three people died and 66 others suffered various injuries in 4,253 fire outbreaks cases recorded by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) across the country within nine months, this year.

Forty one people died and 60 sustained injuries in 4,531 fires outbreaks recorded during the same period last year.

An amount of GH¢18,388,518.00 was estimated as cost of damages caused by these fires this year.

The Head of Public Relations,(PR) of the GNFS,Divisional Officer Grade one (DO II)Ellis Okoe Robinson, who disclosed these to the Ghanaian Times in Accra on Monday, said Ashanti Region recorded the highest with 816, followed by Greater Accra with 706.

He mentioned causes as domestic, industrial, vehicular, Institutional, electrical and bush fires among others.

The Head of PRO said the reduction of the recorded cases was as a result of sustained programmes such as education, active support from educational institutions.

DO II Robinson said the GNFS would collaborate with the Ghana Water Company and the Electricity Corporation Ghana to reduce fire outbreaks in the country.

He said as part of efforts to reduce fire out breaks during the dry season this year, the GNFS would launch anti-bush fire campaign in December.

DOII Robinson said 200 fire volunteers will be trained in basic fire fighting techniques to be on front lines to prevent fires during the dry period.

He urged palm wine tappers, farmers and people who use naked fire to abide by the regulations.

“The Public must endeavour to ensure good housing practice at institutions, homes and public places to prevent such fires during the dry season”, the PRO  added

He advised the public to make fire safety issues their priority to ensure that lives and properties were saved.

DOII Robinson urged leaders of market organisations to create accessibility at their premises and organise fire safety programme for members.

He advised the public to immediately contact the GNFS on its emergency number192 for immediate action.

BY ANITA NYARKO-YIRENKYI

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