Accra,-The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has advised Ghanaians to observe basic fire safety precautions during the yuletide to prevent undesired fires.
It said the prevailing weather conditions had made everything susceptible to fire hence the need to observe fire safety tips to be safe.
A statement signed by the Acting Chief Fire Officer, Mr Julius A Kuunuor, said Ghanaians needed to ensure that all electrical gadgets were switched and unplugged from the socket when leaving home.
It said vehicle owners must conduct routine early morning checks on their vehicles especially the water and oil levels and ensure that all electrical problems were fixed.
It urged farmers to avoid burning to prepare farm lands and for grazing of cattle, adding that farmers who intended to burn and slash bushes as land preparation for crop cultivation should have Bush Fire volunteers on a stand-by.
It said candles, mosquito coils and lanterns should not be left unattended to especially during the period and cautioned parents not to allow children play with naked flames such as matches, lighter, candles and firecrackers.
It advised that in case a pan catches fire when frying, people should rather use a fire blanket, wet cloth to cover the pan. Once the fire is off, wait for a while before removing the cloth then one could continue with the cooking, it stated.
The statement warned drivers against over-speeding and over-taking to avoid road traffic coalition, due to the poor visibility.
It encouraged beach revelers not to swim beyond the demarcated point as they visited the beaches during the season.
It called on Ghanaians not to hesitate to reach the Fire Service 192/112 during emergency as the Service had put all firefighters, rescuers, as well as all fire fighting appliances in readiness for any eventuality during and after the festive season.
“As Ghanaians, I would like to implore everyone to reflect on how far we have come as a nation, the challenges we have overcome, and ways in which we can collectively address the daunting tasks facing the country in terms of fires and the safety of the nation”, it said.
Source: Ghana News Agency
