Fire authorities in Ghana have raised fresh concerns over a growing number of fire outbreaks nationwide, urging residents to be extra vigilant as the Harmattan season intensifies.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) says the current dry and windy weather has created ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread quickly, many of which are avoidable. Speaking to citinewsroom.com, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, DO II Desmond Ackah, warned against risky practices such as open burning and the careless use of naked flames.
According to him, the Harmattan period dries out vegetation, household materials and waste, making them highly combustible and increasing the likelihood of rapid fire escalation.
DO II Ackah stressed that public alertness plays a critical role in fire prevention, especially during this season, and encouraged citizens to report early signs of danger rather than wait for disasters to occur.
“If we suspect that any activity from a neighbour or anybody around us could lead to a fire situation or if it is a fire hazard, we should not sit aloof. We must make a case and quickly report to the appropriate authorities for the necessary remedy to be put in place to deal with fires around this time of the year,” he said.
Fire statistics from the GNFS show that between January and November 2025, a total of 5,585 fire incidents were recorded nationwide. While this represents a slight drop from the 5,596 cases reported within the same period in 2024, officials insist the numbers remain worrying and underscore the need for sustained public education and preventive measures.
The GNFS continues to appeal to households, businesses and communities to observe basic fire safety practices as the Harmattan season persists.
