The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has renewed its appeal to the public to desist from making prank calls to its emergency lines, warning that the practice continues to delay emergency responses and could cost lives.
According to the Service, although prank calls reduced by 17.8 per cent during the first quarter of 2026, it still receives more than 1,200 prank calls every day, placing unnecessary pressure on emergency communication channels.
The GNFS explained that every prank call occupies emergency operators and resources that could otherwise be used to assist people facing real emergencies such as fires, road crashes, medical emergencies and rescue situations.
The Service stressed that emergency telephone lines are reserved strictly for genuine emergencies and urged the public to exercise responsibility when using them.
“Think before you dial. A prank call can prevent someone in real danger from getting the help they need,” the Service cautioned.
The GNFS noted that reducing prank calls remains critical to improving response times and ensuring that emergency personnel can reach people in distress without unnecessary delays.
The Service therefore called on parents, guardians, schools and community leaders to educate children and the public on the dangers associated with prank calls and the potential consequences for emergency response operations.
It reiterated that every call to an emergency line matters and urged the public to use the service responsibly to help save lives and protect property.