The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a sharp increase in fire-related casualties in the first half of 2025, with deaths rising by 33% and injuries nearly tripling compared to the same period last year.
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GNFS data shows that 16 people died in fire incidents between January and June 2025, up from 12 deaths in the same period in 2024. Even more alarming, injuries soared from 30 to 110, marking a 266% increase.
The surge highlights growing concerns over fire safety lapses in urban and residential areas. Common causes include faulty wiring, gas explosions, bushfires, and the storage of flammable materials.
Densely populated cities like Accra and Kumasi remain high-risk zones, with markets and informal settlements frequently affected. Previous market fires in these areas have caused massive financial losses and displaced thousands.
GNFS officials say the rising injury numbers point to a growing burden on the healthcare system, with burn units overstretched and victims facing long-term trauma.
In response, GNFS plans to ramp up fire safety campaigns, urging regular electrical checks, proper appliance use, and installation of fire extinguishers in homes and workplaces.
The agency is also calling for strict enforcement of building codes and increased public vigilance as part of its mandate under the Fire Service Act of 1997.
This troubling trend serves as a wake-up call for all Ghanaians to take fire safety seriously and adopt preventive measures to protect lives and property.
