The Deputy Minister for the Interior, Naana Eyiah, has advocated the use of adjustable burglar proof systems in buildings, instead of permanently fixed ones, to enable people escape during fire outbreaks.
She said despite the reduction in fire outbreaks this year, “burn to death cases” where fire victims were trapped within their houses, thereby making evacuation difficult should be a matter of concern for all.
Speaking at the passing-out parade of Recruit Course 53D of the Ghana National Fire Service at the Fire Academy and Training School (FATS), JamesTown, Accra, Thursday, she said “It is time for us to create a fine balance between our security and safety needs.
“Burglar proof fittings are indeed important for our security but can also be a potential safety impediment if we continue to use only permanently fixed burglar proof systems instead of an adjustable one which is capable of serving both our security and safety needs.”
The recruit course 53D, numbering 986, comprising 505 females and 481 males, is the fourth batch of recruits who underwent six weeks basic firefighting training at the FATS after an attachment to regional commands.
MsAyiah urged the public to commit themselves to decisions and practices that would ensure their safety and that of those around them as well as their property as fire safety was a shared responsibility.
She commended the GNFS for working hard towards reducing fire outbreaks despite limited resources and the ever challenging dynamics of fire management.
She said despite the current economic challenges confronting the country, the government continues to retool the GNFS due to the critical service it provided to the public.
“Therefore, I will urge all personnel of the service to remain committed to their calling and continue to render their valuable services to the good people of Ghana,” she said.
To the new recruits, he advised them to support the service to increase the gains; conduct themselves professionally to bring honour to the service as well as be humble and learn from their superiors.
“As young Officers, do not miss any opportunity to upgrade yourselves in line with your chosen profession so as to improve upon your wealth of knowledge relevant for the discharge of your duties.
“I challenge you to be disciplined and be determined. Strive not to be just a Firefighter, but one whose effort will be felt by both present and future generations.
Of the figure, 23 recruits with Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates passed out as Assistant Station Officer (ASTNO) and Deputy Group Officer (DGO) while four others with Diplomat Certificates, emerged as Subordinate Officer (SUBO) and Assistant Group Officer (AGO).
Majority of the recruits, 959, with West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) / Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) passed out as Recruit Fireman(RFM) and Recruit Firewomen (RFW).
Recruit Officer, Gideon OwusuPeprah, was adjudged the overall best at the ceremony characterised by operational drills, match past and simulation exercises.
BY JONATHAN DONKOR
