In a bid to combat the rising cases of fire outbreaks in Ghana, Local Governance Expert, Engineer Ing. Amon Kotei, has emphasized the need for the National Fire Service to prioritize educating citizens on fire safety and prevention.
This call to action is timely, considering the increasing rate of fire incidents in the country, with domestic fires accounting for 41% of total fire incidents.
Engineer Kotei’s recommendations focus on enhancing fire safety measures in buildings, particularly those with four storeys or more. He advocates for the *Installation of Critical Fire Safety Measures*, including:
– *Fire Suppression Systems*: to quickly extinguish fires and prevent them from spreading
– *Water Reservoirs*: with a capacity of at least 10,000 liters to ensure a steady water supply for firefighting
– *Fire Hydrant Equipment*: to facilitate easy access to water for firefighting purposes
Additionally, Engineer Kotei stresses the importance of *Building Design and Layout*, recommending that:
*Buildings have Multiple Exit Points*: at least two exits to ensure safe evacuation in case of a fire
– *Fire Extinguishers in Every House*: to enable quick response to fires and prevent them from spreading
To ensure compliance with these measures, Engineer Kotei advises that *Regular Checks* be conducted on buildings before they are commissioned for rent or business. This proactive approach will help prevent fire outbreaks and ensure public safety.
The National Fire Service Act, 1997 (Act 537), mandates businesses to adhere to fire safety standards. It is essential for the National Fire Service to be proactive in enforcing these measures and providing education on fire safety and prevention.
By implementing Engineer Kotei’s recommendations, Ghana can strengthen its fire safety measures, reduce the risk of fire outbreaks, and protect its citizens and properties.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
