The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced plans to intensify public education and sensitisation, particularly in market centres, following a devastating fire outbreak at the Cantoments Prison Service Barracks that destroyed several shops and left traders counting heavy losses.
Public Relations Officer of the Service, DOII Desmond Ackah, said authorities would also clamp down on traders who erect structures that obstruct fire hydrants, stressing that such practices seriously hinder emergency response during fire incidents.
He urged traders to strictly adhere to basic fire safety protocols and ensure that all electrical installations in their shops are carried out by certified professional electricians, warning that poor wiring remains a major cause of market fires across the country.
DOII Ackah was reacting to a fire outbreak that razed about 11 shops at the Cantoments Prison Service Barracks in the early hours of Tuesday.
According to eyewitnesses and victims, the fire broke out around 2:00 a.m., starting from a single shop before rapidly spreading to adjoining structures. Firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control, but not before significant damage had been done.
One of the victims, identified as Auntie Abena, tearfully recounted losing cash amounting to GH¢3,000, as well as valuable industrial equipment, including sewing machines she depended on for her livelihood.
Another affected trader also described the incident as a major setback, saying years of hard work had been wiped out in a matter of hours.
The GNFS says it remains committed to preventing such incidents through sustained public education, enforcement of safety regulations, and collaboration with traders and market authorities to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.