GNFS salvages over GH¢470 million property in first quarter of 2026

The Ghana National Fire Service recorded a decline in fire incidents and a sharp drop in fire-related deaths in the first quarter of 2026, while salvaging properties worth GH¢479.4 million.

According to the GNFS, fire outbreaks also fell by 10.02%, with deaths dropping by more than half and injuries significantly reduced, compared to the same period in 2025.

One-bedroom gutted in Techiman fire incident at Pomaakrom

This was contained in a comparative report issued by the service on April 20, 2026.

"The number of fire incidents recorded from January to March 2026 decreased by 206 representing 10.02% compared to the same period in 2025. This significant decline, from 2,261 incidents in 2025 to 2,055 in 2026.

"The cost of salvaged properties increased significantly to GH¢ 479,457,385.00 in 2026, up by 217.5% from GH¢ 151,026,571.40 in 2025," it noted.

The service attributed the significant gains in fire prevention, public awareness, and emergency response to sustained education campaigns and quicker interventions.

"This remarkable rise reflects GNFS's improved fire management strategies and the growing efficiency in preventing extensive damage despite its numerous operational challenges," the report added.

The Ghana National Fire Service also reported a surge in “Out-on-Arrival” (OOA) cases — situations where fires are brought under control before firefighters arrive.

“The increase in Out-on-Arrival cases shows that more people are taking the right first steps when fires start, this is a direct result of sustained public education," it indicated.

GNFS further disclosed that prank calls to emergency lines also declined by 17.8%, freeing up resources for real emergencies and contributing to faster response times.

"Prank calls decreased from 132,770 in 2025 to 109,179 in 2026, representing a 17.8% reduction (23,591 fewer calls). This significant decrease reflects improved public awareness about the serious nature of emergency lines and the consequences of frivolous calls," it said.

The service also disclosed that fire related deaths "decreased from 15 in 2025 to 7 in 2026, representing a 53.5% reduction. The decrease in fire-related deaths highlights improvements in fire safety measures and emergency response."

Despite the progress, the GNFS said the leading causes of fire outbreaks remain largely preventable.

These include electrical faults, unattended cooking, gas leakages, indiscriminate burning, and the misuse of naked flames such as candles and mosquito coils.

It reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying public fire safety campaigns through traditional and social media to help reduce outbreaks.

JKB/AE