The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced the deployment of a special task force to patrol markets nationwide in a decisive effort to curb the rising trend of market fires.
Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Kuunuor outlined the new measures, emphasizing the need for continuous surveillance to protect lives, property, and livelihoods.
“Personnel and fire appliances will be stationed at various markets across the country from 1800 hours to 0600 hours daily, providing round-the-clock fire cover,” he stated.
Additionally, a dedicated task force will conduct routine patrols in major markets, ensuring constant vigilance and swift action in case of fire emergencies. The GNFS will also establish fire units in key markets to intensify safety education, conduct regular inspections, and enforce fire safety protocols.
Chief Fire Officer Kuunuor further directed that “all GNFS personnel assigned to market protection duties will submit daily Situation Reports (SITREPS) to the National Headquarters Operations (NHQ OPS INFO) platform by 0900 hours for further review and necessary action.”
The GNFS is also collaborating with market authorities, the Ghana Police Service, and National Security to ensure effective surveillance, protection, and a coordinated response to fire incidents.
These proactive steps come in response to a worrying surge in market fires across the country. Recent incidents have left many traders devastated, with the Techiman Central Market fire on Sunday night reducing hundreds of shops to ashes.
The Techiman fire is part of a disturbing trend in the early days of the year. Other markets affected include the Tamale Timber Market, Accra’s Kantamanto Market, and the Kwadaso Wood Market in Kumasi, all suffering extensive damage and significant losses.
The GNFS’s latest strategy aims to strengthen fire prevention while urging market authorities, traders, and the public to cooperate fully to ensure the success of this initiative.