The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a rise in fire-related deaths and injuries in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, sparking renewed calls for adherence to safety protocols.
From January to June 2025, 16 people lost their lives and 110 others sustained injuries in fire incidents, up from 12 deaths and 30 injuries recorded during the same period in 2024.
The Service also recorded 3,595 fire cases nationwide, a marginal increase of 19 cases (0.53%) over the 3,576 incidents in 2024.
The Greater Accra Region topped the list with 628 fire cases, followed by Ashanti (581) and Central (408). The North East Region recorded the lowest, with just 10 cases.
According to GNFS, the rise is largely attributed to the harsh harmattan experienced earlier this year and widespread non-compliance with basic fire safety measures.
Key causes include electrical faults, unattended cooking, careless use of open flames, gas leakages, and indiscriminate bush burning.
In a positive development, prank calls to the Service dropped sharply by 34.77%, from 364,020 in 2024 to 237,470 this year, thanks to sustained public awareness campaigns.
The GNFS says over GH¢203 million worth of property was salvaged during this period.
As part of its response, the GNFS plans to intensify public fire safety education, conduct more audits and inspections of premises, train community fire volunteers, and collaborate with road safety authorities to prevent vehicle fires.
The Service also urged the public to stop making prank calls and instead use the national emergency number 112 or dedicated hotlines for prompt response.
“Adhering to basic fire safety protocols can save lives, property, and the environment,” the GNFS cautioned.
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