GNFS presents fire certificates to organisations at Sekondi

Fijai (W/R), June 04, GNA - The Western Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), in collaboration with the Police, would soon begin prosecuting people and organisations that do not obtain fire licenses for their premises.

Mr Isaac Morgan Lawe, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, was speaking at the presentation of fire certificates to some organisations in the region on Friday.

He said fire safety arrangement regulations were covered by Legislative Instrument (LI) 1724 of 2003 and Act 537 of 1997. Mr Lawe said although there are exemptions under the law for a personal building or property not used for public purposes, there was the need to obtain fire certificates.

"The GNFS is concerned about the liability of property owners and occupiers during an outbreak." Mr Lawe called on Ghanaians to assist in protecting lives and property from the effects of fire.

He said while the GNFS was organising educational programmes on the need for fire certificates, many industries, companies and public places have refused to apply for it.

Mr Lawe expressed regret that some personnel of the GNFS have sustained various injuries while attempting to fight a fire. Among the institutions that were presented with certificates are, Carmeuse Lime Products, Whin River Hotel, Lagoonside Hotel, Brotherhood Hotel and North Sea Restaurant.