In the first half of 2023, nine individuals perished in fires, and about 51,319,900.00 worth of property was damaged. In the first half of the year, there were 581 fire outbreaks overall, compared to 700 over the same period in 2022. The data shows a 17 percent decrease in the number of fire incidents in the area. This was revealed in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Kumasi by Divisional Officer Three (DO111), Mr. Peter Addaid, Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service. He ascribed the decrease to the Service's increased public education campaign about the risks and consequences of fire.
He claimed that in addition to educating the public, the Command routinely audited and inspected the fire safety procedures at various tourist hotspots. He said that there was a considerable decrease in the number of fires reported at the end of the second quarter of 2023 compared to the first quarter of the same year. A total of 390 fire occurrences were reported in the first quarter of 2023, while 191 fires were reported in the second quarter of the same year. He claimed that to appropriately prepare for any potential events in the future, the Regional Command has regularly held simulation drills at numerous locations, including the Kejetia Market, the main commercial centre in Ashanti.
These exercises are meant to validate and enhance preparedness and response plans, procedures and systems for all hazards and capabilities. Mr Addai said the reduction in fire incidents was a good signal that people were adhering to practices and tips from fire officers. He called on Ghanaians to remain fire safety conscious saying, “A stitch in time saves nine” adding that “prevention, as we all know, is cheaper than the damage caused after an outbreak of fire.”
