By Michael Foli Jackidy
Kpando (V/R), Nov 18, GNA-Togbui Dzablu IV, the Awafia of Kpando Dzewoe, has urged Ghanaians to take fire safety seriously, especially as the harmattan season approaches.
According to him, fire is a powerful force that can be both beneficial and destructive.
He emphasized the need for increased awareness and vigilance, noting that many people tend to overlook simple fire safety measures, often with devastating consequences.
Togbui Dzablu made this call during the Kpando Dzewoe Youth Foundation’s executive meeting held on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The foundation focuses on community development and empowerment and has taken up fire safety advocacy as one of its key initiatives.
“Unlike burglars, who may leave behind some belongings, fire spares nothing in its path and can even result in loss of life,” Togbui Dzablu remarked.
He called on traditional leaders to take proactive steps by forming local firefighting volunteer groups within their communities.
These groups, he explained, could quickly respond to minor fires, such as bushfires and domestic incidents, before the Ghana National Fire Service arrives.
The traditional leader appealed to community members to provide support to their local fire stations. This support could include donations of essential resources such as fuel and firefighting equipment.
Togbui Dzablu believes that such contributions would boost the morale of firefighters and enable them to respond more effectively.
He also urged residents to be vigilant and to promptly report any fire hazards or outbreaks to the authorities. By working together and supporting fire safety initiatives, communities can play a critical role in preventing and minimizing fire incidents.
He encouraged community members to volunteer their time or donate resources to assist in educating others about fire safety.
Togbui Dzablu called on religious leaders to incorporate fire safety tips into their sermons. He believes that faith leaders had significant influence over their congregations and could help instill a culture of fire safety and awareness.
By sharing practical advice on preventing fires and how to respond during fire outbreaks, religious leaders can contribute to reducing the occurrence of domestic fires.
“Religious leaders have a unique platform to reach many people. By including fire safety tips in their messages, they can help promote a culture of prevention and preparedness,” he said.
Togbui Dzablu stressed that firefighting is a collective responsibility, not just the duty of professional firefighters. He advised community members to keep local fire emergency numbers on speed dial for quick access during emergencies.
He cautioned against the practice of calling radio stations to report fires, which can delay response times.
“We must have local firefighting emergency numbers saved on our phones for immediate contact during emergencies, rather than relying on radio announcements,” he advised.
The traditional leader commended the government and Fire Aid UK for their donation of firefighting vehicles to the Ghana National Fire Service.
However, he also called for the acquisition of more advanced and sophisticated firefighting equipment to enhance the effectiveness of fire response efforts.
Togbui Dzablu’s call to action serves as a timely reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially during the dry harmattan season when fire risks are heightened. His message underscores the need for collective responsibility in preventing and combating fires.
He emphasized that individuals, communities, traditional leaders, and religious leaders all have a role to play in promoting fire safety and reducing the risk of devastating fires.
As Ghanaians come together to advocate for fire safety, it is crucial to recognize that every person can contribute to building a safer environment. By prioritizing fire safety and working collaboratively, the nation can prevent tragic fire incidents and protect lives and property.
GNA