The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a stern warning regarding the persistent misuse of its emergency lines by prank callers, emphasizing that the practice is jeopardizing lives.
In an interview with Channel One TV on Friday, May 9, ADO I Derrick Elorm Adzokpa from the GNFS Public Relations Department expressed strong concerns over the issue, describing it as a serious threat to emergency response efforts.
“The prank calls are killing us,” Adzokpa said, explaining that false alarms clog vital communication lines and can delay responses to genuine emergencies.
While the Service recorded a 31.52% reduction in prank calls during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year—thanks to intensified public education—Adzokpa stated that the issue remains significant.
He emphasized the gravity of the matter: “Sometimes, when there’s an emergency and you call 112 or 192, and the call doesn’t go through, it’s likely because someone else is on the line—and that could be a prank call. This could prevent individuals in genuine emergencies from receiving the help they need.”
To alleviate the problem, Adzokpa encouraged the public to use alternative emergency numbers—0302 772 446 and 0299 340 383—if the primary hotlines are busy, assuring that these lines are actively monitored and connect directly to dispatchers.
He urged Ghanaians to act responsibly and use emergency lines only in real crisis situations. “Even one prank call can cost lives,” he warned.
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