The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced that it currently operates two hydraulic platforms specifically designed to combat fire outbreaks in high-rise buildings.
According to the service, these specialised platforms enable firefighters to reach elevations as high as 17 storeys, significantly enhancing their operational reach.
DOII Desmond Ackah, a member of the Public Affairs Directorate, confirmed the availability of these resources in response to enquiries regarding the service’s logistical preparedness for skyscraper emergencies.
“We now have two hydraulic platforms that can help us attend to fire incidents on high-rise buildings, including those with 17 floors,” he stated.
Beyond external intervention, DOII Ackah emphasised that fire safety is a collaborative effort between the service and developers.
He noted that builders undertaking projects of such magnitude are legally required to implement internal safety measures, such as the incorporation of risers and other localised fire suppression equipment to help contain outbreaks at the source.
In addition to the high-reaching hydraulic platforms, the GNFS maintains six turntable ladders distributed across the country.
These units are primarily used to manage fire incidents in buildings up to seven stories tall.
While these assets provide a baseline of protection, DOII Ackah acknowledged the logistical strain caused by the country’s rapid vertical urban growth.
He highlighted the urgent need for additional machinery to ensure the service is not overwhelmed should multiple high-rise emergencies occur simultaneously.
“It is important that we get more of these platforms in all the regions to help deal with cases,” he explained, stressing that the current inventory, while functional, faces challenges under heavy demand.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, DOII Ackah reiterated that fire prevention and combat are shared responsibilities.
He called upon corporate bodies and the general public to support the GNFS, assuring that the service remains dedicated to emergency response despite existing logistical hurdles.
“We encourage Ghanaians to support us. The public must take fire safety issues seriously to help reduce fire outbreaks. While it is the responsibility of the government to invest and provide the GNFS with the needed logistics, the corporate world and individuals can also extend a helping hand to the GNFS,” he concluded.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
