The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a noticeable rise in fire-related deaths and injuries in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, prompting renewed calls for strict adherence to fire safety protocols.

According to the GNFS, 16 people lost their lives and 110 others sustained injuries in fire outbreaks between January and June 2025.

This marks a significant increase from the 12 deaths and 30 injuries recorded during the same period in 2024.

In a press release dated July 7,2025, it stated that the total number of fire incidents also saw a slight rise, with 3,595 cases recorded nationwide a marginal increase of 19 cases (0.53%) over the 3,576 incidents logged in the first half of 2024.

The Greater Accra Region topped the list of reported cases with 628, followed by the Ashanti Region with 581 and the Central Region with 408.

The Northeast Region recorded the lowest number of incidents, with just 10 fire cases reported.

GNFS attributed the rise in casualties to the harsh harmattan season experienced earlier in the year, coupled with widespread non-compliance with basic fire safety measures.

Major causes of the fires included electrical faults, unattended cooking, careless use of open flames, gas leakages, and indiscriminate bush burning.

“Many of these incidents could have been prevented with simple precautions. We continue to urge the public to be vigilant, especially with the use of electrical appliances, gas, and open flames in homes and workplaces”, the report said.

The urban centres, characterised by densely populated areas and informal settlements, are particularly vulnerable.

Accra, Kumasi, and other major cities often experience devastating fire incidents in markets and residential areas due to overcrowded structures and inadequate fire safety infrastructure.

For instance, in previous years, major market fires in Accra and Kumasi have resulted in substantial economic losses, often running into millions of Ghana Cedis, and displaced numerous traders, though specific casualty figures for such incidents are not always immediately linked to the broader national statistics.

The Service has since urged the public to take fire safety precautions seriously and report potential hazards promptly, especially as the country prepares for drier months ahead and the importance of having fire extinguishers in homes and workplaces.

MRA/MA

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