GNFS sensitizes fishers on proper handling of premix fuel

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By
Isaac Arkoh/NanaOye Gyimah, GNA

Cape Coast, Feb. 19,
GNA – The Central Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS)
has stepped up intensive fire safety education campaigns for fishers on safe
handling of premix fuel.

The move was geared
towards effectively assuaging the occurrences of recent fire outbreaks
resulting from improper handling of premix fuel, causing destruction to lives
and hard-earned property at Kormantse and Elmina in the Region.

The intensified
campaigns, which would be extended to other fishing communities will empower
fishers on basic fire safety tips to get them familiarise themselves with
innovative fire prevention measures to drastically reduce the persistent fire
outbreaks.

Addressing separate
durbars held at Cape Coast and Elmina on Tuesday, Divisional Officer 1 (D01),
John Amarlai Amartey, Regional Commander, said the move formed part of measures
to stem the tide of fire outbreaks at premix station across the Region.

The GNFS had been
proactive and moved away from the fire-fighting approach to fire safety and
prevention, hence the focus on such communities to imbibe in them safety
consciousness for them to rake in their support.

The Regional Fire
Commander told the gathering that when fire starts, even if it was tackled at
the incipient stage, one or two items will definitely be destroyed and
therefore it must be prevented at all cost.

He told the fishers
to desist from keeping their premix fuel in their living rooms or near naked
fires including lighted candles, naked wire and kitchen among others, as was
the case in infernos at Kormantse and Elmina.

“As a people, we
cannot downplay good fire safety practices to protect lives and property across
the country.”

He recommended that
premix fuel be kept in containers along the coast under lock and key to prevent
pilfering and to reduce fatalities and damage in case of explosion.

“Just observe
these safety precautions to save your life and that of your loved ones. Report
whenever you suspect or have challenges with the safe storage of any fuel,
don’t die through negligence,” he added.

According to him,
fire safety practices were a way of life, for which reason it was imperative
for every citizen to endeavour to adhere to best practices at wherever we find
ourselves.

Using a piece of
drama to drum home the essence of fire safety, the Service reiterated its
commitment to sustain the campaign in schools, churches and mosques, workplaces
and within its communities.

The GNFS will
continue to provide technical advice for building plans in respect of machinery
and structural layouts to facilitate escape from fire, rescue operations and
fire management and inspection.

The Regional Fire
Commander stated that the management of fires was a shared responsibility
therefore, it behoved on all to take prudent measures and also adhere to safety
precautions.

GNA