The Central Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has deployed fire personnel to areas of heightened risk throughout the region.
These areas encompass entertainment hubs, markets, and other venues with substantial human congregations, all in the pursuit of ensuring public safety before, during, and after the festive season.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFOII), Merinda Mary Attigah-Mensah, the Regional Commander of the Service, said the measure was essential in mitigating risks linked to heightened fire hazards emanating from seasonal decorations and culinary activities.
Before the deployment, she said inspections were conducted on these strategic sites and facilities to ensure compliance with fundamental fire safety standards.
However, the vigilance of human activities, she said, was crucial during the holiday season to prevent fire outbreaks.
ACFOII Attigah-Mensah underscored the ability of personnel to diligently monitor high-risk zones, promptly address incidents and impart fire safety knowledge to the community.
The deployment will nurture trust and collaboration in communities and ensures a harmonized response to emergencies, thereby diminishing the likelihood of casualties and property damage during this yuletide.
Beyond that, a dedicated patrol team will keep surveillance in the streets, as well as entertainment and event venues, ready to respond to any calls from the stationed officers.
“The safety of the region falls under the purview of the service, hence the imperative to extend fire protection to these locations during the festive season.
The Regional Commander urged the public to celebrate responsibly and prioritise their safety above all else.
She said there were several fire risks and road accidents involved in such festivities; thus all individuals should be cautious.
“We are advising all owners of places of mass gatherings to alert the Service to ensure there are emergency exits as well as fire extinguishers in their correct shape.
“This should be readily available, so that when there is any incident they can be used to just deal with the situation” she said.
“Do not use fire cracks this time and in case you want to use bonfires in your celebration, please whether you are an individual or a group of persons knows that before you do that activity, you need to inform the Ghana fire service 24 hours before the commencement,” ACFOII Attigah-Mensah explained.
GNA