By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu
Anloga (VR), Dec 27, GNA-The Anloga office of Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the Volta Region has warned residents of Anloga and its environs to desist from using firecrackers during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
According to the Fire Service, the use of firecrackers poses a significant risk to lives and properties and could lead to devastating fires and injuries during the season.
Mr Julius Maniasah, Assistant Fire Service Station Officer, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said that fire outbreak cases in the country were on the rise and needed urgent attention to curb the menace.
“We urge everyone to celebrate the festive season responsibly and avoid using firecrackers, which can have disastrous consequences since the weather these days poses more danger,” he said.
He assured the public that the fire service was prepared to respond quickly and effectively to any fire incidents that might occur in the area during the festive season and cautioned the public to be careful with the use of fire.
Mr Maniasah advised the public to take necessary precautions to prevent fires, such as ensuring that electrical appliances were switched off when not in use as well as keeping flammable materials away from heat sources.
“By taking these precautionary measures and avoiding the use of firecrackers, residents can help ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season for everyone.”
He also urged taxi drivers who use gas cylinders in their vehicles instead of fuel to check and practice proper maintenance to prevent any leakages that could eventually cause any unfortunate incident.
He said firecrackers could have severe effects on people, animals and the environment, including hearing loss and stress, air pollution which can also exacerbate respiratory problems like asthma and fire hazards destroying properties and wildlife habitats.
Mr Maniasah emphasised that the GNFS had further conducted public education and awareness campaigns to prevent fire outbreak incidents.
He said it was essential to handle firecrackers with care and follow safety guidelines and stop bushfires to minimise these risks during and after the yuletide.
Meanwhile, GNFS has reported that a significant number of fire outbreaks was recorded in 2024 with 2,764 fire incidents reported between January and April 2024, which is an increase from the 2,683 fires reported cases during the same period in 2023.
It further stated that the GNFS recorded 2,291 fire outbreaks in the first quarter of 2024, representing a 5.24 per cent increase from the previous year with the Upper West Region with a 9.43 per cent increase in fire incidents whilst 116 cases reported from January to date, compared to 106 cases in the previous year.
The common causes of these fire outbreaks according to GNFS include electrical faults, misuse of naked lights, gas leakages, and faulty cooking appliances, among others.
GNA