• Breaking News
Fire incidents, prank calls and fire-related deaths fall as GNFS salvages GHC 479.46m in Q1 2026

Fire incidents, prank calls and fire-related deaths fall as GNFS salvages GHC 479.46m in Q1 2026

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced remarkable achievements in fire safety and emergency response during the first quarter of 2026.

According to a press release signed by the Head of Public Relations at the Ghana National Fire Service, DO II Desmond E. Ackah, the period recorded significant positive indicators.

It showed that fire incidents decreased by 10.02%, fire-related deaths dropped by 53.5%, and fire-related injuries fell by 62.79%. In addition, bushfires reduced by 62.81%, and prank calls decreased by 17.8%.

Out-on-Arrival (OOA) cases increased to 651, from 558 recorded in 2025, representing a rise of 32%.

This, the service noted, reflects improved community preparedness and effective public action in managing fires before they escalate and before firefighters arrive on the scene.

Meanwhile, the value of salvaged properties surged to GHC 479,457,385.00 from GHC 151,026,471.40, representing an increase of 217.47%.

The release noted that these achievements highlight the GNFS’s effective fire safety measures, rapid response capabilities, and the growing impact of public fire safety education across the country. It further stated that the report provides insights into recent trends and the effectiveness of ongoing fire safety initiatives.

"Major fire causes recorded during the period under review included: Electrical faults from misuse of electricity and appliances; Unattended cooking and Gas leakages from improper use of LPG stoves and cylinders; Indiscriminate burning ofrefuse and bushes: Misuse of naked lights such as lit mosquito coils, candles, lighters, and matches; Lightning effects and deliberate acts."

"The number of fire incidents recorded from January to March 2026 decreased by 206 representing 10.02% compared to the same period in 2025.

This significant decline, from 2,261 incidents in 2025 to 2,055 in 2026, demonstrates the effectiveness of enhanced fire prevention strategies and improved public compliance with fire safety regulations.

The cost of salvaged properties increased significantly to GHC 479,457,385.00 in 2026, up by 217.5% from GHC 151,026,57 1.40 in 2025," it stated.

The release added that this remarkable rise reflects the GNFS’s improved fire management strategies and the growing efficiency in preventing extensive damage despite its numerous operational challenges.

The management further assured the public that it remains dedicated to advancing fire safety education and improving response strategies to protect lives, property and the environment effectively.

Source: Vanessa Elizabeth Nkum

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!

Leave a Comment