The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a stern caution to the public regarding the interference with professional emergency responders during active crisis situations.
The Service maintains that such interruptions significantly undermine rapid response efforts and can jeopardise the effectiveness of rescue operations.
This advisory follows the recent collapse of an uncompleted structure on the premises of the Accra New Town Experimental Basic School, a location also frequented by Christian worshippers. Alex King Nartey, a representative from the Public Relations Department of the GNFS, highlighted that unauthorised interference from local residents was a primary obstacle faced by teams on the ground.
During an interview on Frontline via Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Nartey observed that many residents failed to recognise the necessity of allowing professionals to manage the scene.
Despite explicit instructions to vacate the immediate area for their own safety, many individuals refused to move, seemingly unaware of the secondary risks associated with their presence.
The official disclosed that the environment was so chaotic that rescuers had to rely almost entirely on the voices of those trapped beneath the rubble to locate and extract them.
A critical point of concern raised by the service involves the immediate care of survivors.
Mr Nartey warned that well-intentioned bystanders often put victims at greater risk by attempting to provide water or moving them incorrectly.
He noted that such actions can be fatal or severely worsen a victim’s condition, as there are strict, established protocols for stabilising and transporting individuals during a rescue mission.
“I will urge the public not to interfere with our rescue mission or work. We are the trained professionals equipped with protective gear. You do not [have] any form of training or protection and could easily get harmed, so why place yourself in such harm’s way? So when we ask you not to interfere with our work, stay away.”
He further clarified the danger of amateur aid, stating that specific instructions were given to the crowd not to provide water to trapped victims due to the high risks involved.
He explained that the physical handling of a victim requires specialised techniques to avoid aggravating internal injuries.
While acknowledging that residents often wish to be helpful, he emphasised that their efforts frequently undermine the safety of the victims and the emergency personnel involved.
In addition to scene safety, the GNFS advised property owners and developers to prioritise safety during the design phase of any construction.
He recommended that individuals ensure their buildings feature multiple exit points and encouraged the public to consult with the GNFS during the building process.
By seeking professional guidelines early, builders can better adopt safety measures that protect occupants in the event of a future emergency.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
