The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reminds the public that the law prohibiting the manufacture, wholesaling, and retailing of firecrackers, commonly known as “knockouts”, remains in effect.
According to the Executive Instrument (E.I.) 21 of 1999, the production, possession, or transportation of explosives, including firecrackers, is strictly forbidden.
The Legislative Instrument (LI) “Export and Import (Prohibition of Importation) 1999” empowers the Ministry of Trade to ban the importation of firecrackers, artillery shells, display shells, and canister shells.
DOII Desmond Ackah, Public Relations Officer of the Service, warns that individuals violating this law will face prosecution.
In an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he emphasised that the use, sale, or possession of firecrackers by individuals at events, homes, or other places is strictly prohibited.
“The ban on firecrackers remains in force, and we urge the public to comply to avoid arrest and prosecution,” he stated.
Those found guilty of breaching the law will be liable to a fine, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
DOII Ackah appealed to the public to report instances of firecracker sales or use to the police, stressing the Service’s commitment to a fire-free festive season.
He outlined measures to prevent domestic, industrial, and bushfires, including intensified public education, fire safety inspections, and enforcement actions against non-compliant facilities.
“We are appealing to the public to report any individual observed selling or using firecrackers directly to the police for immediate apprehension. Historically, the use of these devices has been linked to significant fire outbreaks and has caused direct harm to citizens. Therefore, we implore all Ghanaians to assist us in enforcing the law against those in violation. Furthermore, we have instituted comprehensive measures designed to prevent domestic, industrial, and bushfires. This includes intensifying public education campaigns, rigorously conducting fire safety inspections, and taking decisive action against facilities found to be non-compliant with established fire safety regulations.”
By: Rainbowradiooine.com/Ghana
