GNFS deploys personnel, fire tenders at markets for 12-hour daily fire cover

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced a strategic initiative to enhance fire safety in the nation’s major markets.

Effective immediately, fire personnel and appliances will be stationed at various markets across the country from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. daily, providing round-the-clock fire cover.

Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Kuunuor emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “The safety and protection of our markets are paramount. This deployment will help ensure a quick response to any fire outbreaks, reducing the risk to lives and property.”

In addition to the deployment, a dedicated task force will patrol the markets during the night shift to ensure swift action in case of any fire outbreaks and to provide constant vigilance.

The GNFS will also establish fire units in key markets to intensify fire safety education, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance with fire safety protocols.

These precautionary measures are part of a broader strategy to mitigate the risk of fire incidents in markets, which are vital to the country’s economy and daily life.

The cooperation of all stakeholders, including market authorities, traders, and the general public, is essential for the success of this initiative.

President John Dramani Mahama has also addressed the recent spate of market fires.

During a meeting with traders from the fire-ravaged Kantamanto Market, he directed security services to deploy personnel to strategic locations in major markets nationwide.

He stated, “We held a meeting with the security heads today to discuss how we can tighten security around all major markets to prevent such occurrences.”

The President further emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance, noting, “In addition, we are asking the Ghana National Fire Service in the night… to deploy their fire tenders close to the markets in the night.”