The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has released its comparative performance report for the first quarter of 2026, revealing a substantial improvement in national fire safety and a dramatic reduction in fire-related casualties.
Between January and March, fire-related deaths plummeted by 53.5 per cent, while injuries saw an even steeper decline of nearly 63 per cent compared to the same period last year.
The service recorded a 10 per cent overall reduction in fire outbreaks, with total incidents dropping from 2,261 in 2025 to 2,055 this year.
This downward trend is largely attributed to more robust fire prevention strategies and a notable shift in public behaviour. One of the most encouraging indicators is the rise in “Out-on-Arrival” cases, which increased by 32 per cent.
According to GNFS, the gains made suggests that citizens are becoming better equipped to suppress small fires before emergency crews reach the scene, preventing many domestic and commercial incidents from escalating into disasters.
Financial data from the quarter further underscores the efficiency of recent interventions.
Although the total cost of fire damage rose to GHȻ 215 million, the value of property salvaged by firefighters reached a staggering GHȻ 479.4 million—a 217 per cent increase over the GHȻ 151 million saved in early 2025.
Regional data shows that Greater Accra remains the busiest hub for emergency responders with 377 incidents, followed closely by the Ashanti and Central Regions. Conversely, the Oti Region recorded the lowest figures, with just 21 cases reported over the three-month period.
While bushfires saw a welcome 10 per cent reduction, domestic and commercial fires saw slight increases, often triggered by electrical faults, gas leakages, and unattended cooking.
Public cooperation appears to be improving in other areas as well. The GNFS noted a 17.8 per cent drop in prank calls, freeing up vital resources for genuine emergencies.
However, the report also highlighted a sobering rise in Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs).
The number of accidents rose by 46 per cent, resulting in 130 deaths and 932 injuries.
These figures have prompted the GNFS to call for closer collaboration with the National Road Safety Authority to address the growing carnage on Ghanaian roads.
In response to these diverse challenges, the GNFS has pledged to intensify fire safety audits for commercial premises and expand its community volunteer programmes.
Plans are also underway to train more fire volunteers in rural areas to manage bushfires using climate-resilient strategies, such as creating fire belts and promoting alternative livelihoods to protect the nation’s forest cover.
Management continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to basic fire safety protocols to protect lives and the environment as the year progresses.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
