Ageing fire tenders, lack of hydrants threaten emergency response in Tema Region
Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the Tema Region is facing significant operational challenges that are undermining emergency response efforts. Divisional Officer Grade II (DO II) Ebenezer Yenzu, Tema Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, disclosed that the region's firefighting fleet has exceeded its operational lifespan, with the last major allocation of fire tenders received about 15 years ago. DO II Yenzu said international standards require emergency vehicles to be replaced or completely re-engined after five years of service.
The industrial enclave within the region lacks active fire hydrants, forcing fire crews to depend on alternative water sources during emergencies. The GNFS also identified poor roads and traffic congestion as major obstacles to meeting emergency response standards. DO II Yenzu explained that reinforcement crews travelling from Katamanso to Akuse could spend up to 30 minutes on the road due to poor road conditions and traffic bottlenecks. Out of the 318 fire incidents recorded in the region during the first quarter of the year, 126 were extinguished by community members before the arrival of firefighters.
DO II Yenzu urged residents to contact the Tema Regional Control Room directly during fire outbreaks via the emergency line 0303 202 554 to avoid delays associated with national call-routing systems.
Quick Summary
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in the Tema Region is struggling with old equipment and infrastructure. Officials say these issues are impacting their ability to respond to emergencies - and putting lives at risk.
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