A fire expert has underscored the need for developers to submit their building plans to the Fire Service for expert advice on the appropriate sitting of their project to avoid obstruction. Prince Anaglatey, a Fire Training Officer of the Tema Fire Office noted that in the event of fire outbreak, accessibility to fire scenes become very difficult as spaces earmarked for particular purposes have been developed. He said the Legislative Instrument, 1724 of 2003 of the Fire Service makes it mandatory for building plans to be scrutinized by the Service before the onset of construction but the public ignore this very important demand and eventually create problem for the community during disasters. Mr Anaglatey made the call at a simulation exercise and exhibition embarked upon by the Tema Regional Command of the National Fire Service to enhance public education and to know more about their activities and operations. The simulation exercise involved the climbing of tall buildings to rescue victims trapped in fire incidents and well as resuscitation of victims. He stressed the importance for the creation of accessible roads in all communities no matter the population so that in case of emergencies people could be rescued with ease and properties retrieved before things get out of hand. Mr Anaglatey explained that every building, depending on the type of the building materials used has time frame to collapse during fire outbreak so urgency has to be attached in such situations but accessibility becomes a hindrance. The Tema Municipal Fire Officer, Paul Tamakloe said the Service is making a bold shift from fire fighting and prevention to Fire Safety as enshrined in the Legislative Instrument. While cautioning the public to be extra careful in the handling of fires in the homes, establishments must equally ensure that they have the basic fire fighting equipment and also acquire Fire Certificates. He expressed regret at the rate at which Fire Personnel in the Municipality are attacked by mobs in the course of fighting fire, especially at Ashaiman and warned that if the situation was not checked the station at Ashaiman might be relocated. Mr Tamakloe indicated that in 2006 his outfit recorded 273 fire outbreaks with 13 deaths and 89 injuries. Source: GNA