By Samuel Spio-Gabrah, GNA
Ashaiman, April 01, GNA — The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), on Tuesday evening, successfully extinguished a major fire that ravaged several wooden structures and metal containers at Ashaiman Tulaku.
Divisional Officer II (DOII) Ebenezer Yenzu, the Tema Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, informed the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that at about 17:21 hours, a distress call was received by the command.
DOII Yenzu added that the quick three-minute response time of the Ashaiman fire unit, which reached the scene at about 17:24 hours, was crucial in stopping additional damage.
He said a group of wooden, makeshift kiosks were rapidly being consumed by the fire when the team reached the scene, adding that three more fire engines were sent from the Tema Industrial Area, the Regional Headquarters, and the China Mall area to supplement the operation due to the fire’s intensity and the crowded nature of the structures.
Mr Yenzu outlined how a water truck was also used to deliver a steady supply of water for the confinement phase, which sought to isolate the fire from nearby properties.
He mentioned that at about 19:00 hours, the squad had completely contained the fire.
He speculated that the fire might have started at about 16:00 hours and that before the GNFS was called, the residents were trying to save their possessions.
The PRO advised the public to report such situations promptly, pointing out that in this case, prompt action prevented the flames from reaching seven metal containers and eight timber structures.
DOII Yenzu confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded, adding that investigators were still working to determine the exact number of destroyed kiosks.
He mentioned that while many structures were razed, six metal containers were classified as partially burnt, with their contents unfortunately destroyed.
He noted that certain structures were positioned beneath high-tension pylons, clarifying that when water was applied to such structures close to the power lines, some materials responded, putting the resilient firefighting personnel in danger.
Concerned about the significant concentration of gas cylinders at the location, the PRO disclosed that at least three of them had exploded prior to their arrival.
He cautioned the public against such acts, pointing out that using such highly combustible objects in densely populated residential areas greatly increased the risk of explosions and quick fire spread.
Mr Yenzu suggested that locals leave clear areas or buffers between groups of buildings in future plans, proposing that construction in smaller groups with specified spacing would lessen the overall impact of such fires and assist in stopping the spread of fires.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Linda Asante Agyei