A classroom at a school in Kpobikope-Amasaman, Greater Accra Region, was reduced to ashes on Thursday, November 29, after students recklessly used fire crackers near flammable materials.
The resulting fire caused significant damage to one classroom before officers from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived to extinguish the flames and prevent the blaze from spreading to other parts of the school. No casualties were reported, according to the GNFS.
Fire crackers are commonly used in Ghana during the festive season, but their improper handling often poses fire risks. Following the incident, the Greater Accra Regional Fire Command has urged the public to adhere to safety guidelines, including keeping fire extinguishers nearby and avoiding flammable materials when using fire crackers.
The GNFS emphasized the importance of these precautions, stating, “Avoiding flammable materials ensures a safe festive season.”
Additionally, the GNFS has called on Ghanaians to prioritize fire safety during the holidays by gifting fire extinguishers instead of traditional hampers.
“It is old fashion. Buy people fire extinguishers to protect themselves at home. Instead of doing hampers, you can get a nice ribbon on the fire extinguisher and give it to someone as a gift,” GNFS Public Relations Officer Mr. Alex King Nartey said in an interview with JoyNews.
This appeal comes amid alarming fire statistics, with Ghana recording 4,650 fire incidents between January and September 2024. The GNFS is intensifying efforts to promote fire safety awareness as the festive season approaches.
