By Diana Adjei
The Ghana National Fire Service has raised concerns about the increasing number of illegal structures built around fire hydrants, particularly in market areas across the country.
According to the Head of Public Relations at the Ghana national fire service , Desmond Ackah, the situation is common in busy market settings where traders construct stalls and platforms over fire hydrants, making them inaccessible during emergencies.
Mr. Ackah explained that although market managers are responsible for maintaining order within market spaces, many have failed to ensure that fire hydrants are kept clear, as required by law. He noted that covering hydrants poses serious risks and can delay firefighting operations when fires break out.
He said the Fire Service is mandated to inspect and monitor fire hydrants regularly. However, the Service is currently facing logistical challenges, including limited resources and equipment, which affect the effective monitoring of hydrant sites.
To address the challenge, Mr. Ackah called for stronger collaboration among Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, the Ghana Water Company Limited, and the Ghana National Fire Service. He said joint inspections would help identify problematic hydrant sites early and ensure that issues are addressed promptly.
He revealed that plans are underway to form a unified fire hydrant inspection team involving the Assemblies, Ghana Water, and the Fire Service. This, he said, will help improve reporting, enforcement, and overall public safety.
Mr. Ackah urged market traders and the general public to cooperate with authorities and comply with laid-down regulations to prevent avoidable fire disasters.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com
