GNFS saves over 2,000 tricycles from fire at Takoradi warehouse

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), with support from the Air Force Base Fire Department, has contained a fire at a tricycle assembly warehouse belonging to Somoco Company Limited near the Takoradi Air Force Base.

The fire destroyed 10 tricycles but firefighters managed to save more than 2,000 others and protect adjoining buildings and a nearby mall.

A notice shared by the PRO of the Western Regional GNFS stated that the incident occurred on Tuesday, October 13, with no casualties recorded.

According to the GNFS, a distress call was received at 10:37 a.m., prompting a response from firefighters at the Sekondi Metro Fire Station and the Air Force Base Fire Department.

The fire was brought under control at 11:11 a.m. and completely extinguished nine minutes later. Investigations are ongoing to establish its cause.

In a separate incident later that morning, firefighters also contained a bushfire near Takoradi Technical University (TTU), preventing it from spreading to nearby vegetation and buildings.

The Sekondi Metro Fire Station received a distress call at 11:55 a.m. and deployed a six-member crew led by ADO I Kenneth Agbavor.

The fire was brought under control at 12:07 p.m. and extinguished at 12:15 p.m.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the bushfire started when uncontrolled refuse burning ignited dry weeds. No casualties were recorded.

The Western Regional Commander of the GNFS, ACFO I Cecil B. R. Addo, and the Sekondi Metro Fire Officer, DO II Michael Tetteh, were among the officers present during the warehouse fire response.

The Regional Commander also visited the bushfire scene.

Commenting on the incidents, the Regional Commander cautioned residents against indiscriminate burning, reminding them that uncontrolled bush burning is prohibited under the Control and Prevention of Bushfires Law, 1990 (P.N.D.C.L. 229).

The GNFS also urged businesses and warehouse operators to strengthen fire safety measures, obtain the necessary fire safety certification and maintain safe storage practices.

“Residents have also been advised to dispose of refuse responsibly and avoid burning near dry vegetation and fuel installations to prevent fires and protect lives, property and the environment,” the Service said.