CALL 192 AND NOT 999, FOR FIRE SERVICE...GNFS

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reminded the public that “999” is not GNFS distress call number. For most people, 999 instead of 192 seems to be the emergency number on which to reach GNFS in times of fire out breaks that is said to delay prompt response from the authorities. This was noted by Mr. Robinson Ellis Okoe, Head of Public Relations in a press statement issued in Accra today . the statement is part of the units effort to sensitize the public on the rampant fire outbreaks in the country with the recent one at the Mallam-Market which destroyed over 50 sheds and millions worth of properties. The PRO also revealed that they are collaborating with mobile phone operators to enhance they emergency call systems, hence it is important for every Ghanaian to keep in mind and dial 192 when in distress. The statement said the management of the Service had noted with concern, the spate of fire outbreaks and the inability of a section of the public to access 192 because of the line being busy or its inaccessibility in newly developed areas. He said: "alternately, callers could also use the following fixed line numbers for assistance; Greater Accra - 0302666576/7, Ashanti Region - 032-2022221; Eastern Region - 034-2021852; Volta Region – 036-2026679; Northern Region - 037-2022864; Upper West Region - 039-2022389; Tema-030-3202518; and Western Region - 031-2022660. Others are Central Region - 033-2032902; Brong Ahafo Region - 035-2027129; Upper East Region - 338-2022277. The GNFS also quoted the numbers for its Headquarters as 030-2760110, 030-2779637, 030-2772446. The telephone number to the Fire Training School is 030- 2664937, the statement said. OPINION Although GNFS is keen on letting people know the emergency lines, there is the need for more responsiveness from all parties in the country in times of disaster. For instance it about time fire hydrant are adequately positioned and easily located in order to avoid dealing with firemen honking through the street only to tell victims there is no water in the tank to quench the fire. Again, people should also stop building in access roads for swift passage in such situation to avoid firemen having to wait on city authorities for demolishing before quenching a raging fire. Ghana stand to save a lot by doing the simple right things.