Togbui Dzablu IV, the Awafia (Warlord) of Kpando Dzewoe in the Volta Region, has urged traditional and religious leaders to incorporate fire safety into their activities.

According to him, fire can be both beneficial and destructive, which is why it is essential to prioritise fire safety. Togbui Dzablu believes that fire outbreaks can be better managed if leaders in society, particularly religious and traditional leaders, make fire safety a priority in their leadership.

"Religious leaders have significant influence over their congregations, and by emphasising the importance of fire safety, they can help create a culture of awareness and prevention. By incorporating fire safety tips into their sermons, religious leaders can also provide their congregations with practical advice on how to prevent fires and how to respond in the event of a fire outbreak," he said.

"Unlike burglars, who may leave some belongings behind, fire destroys everything in its path and can even claim lives," he added.

Togbui Dzablu also called on his fellow traditional rulers to prioritise fire safety in their communities.

He was speaking during the executive meeting of the Kpando Dzewoe Youth Foundation over the weekend, held in Kpando. He encouraged the youth in his community and beyond to become advocates for fire safety, especially with the dry season approaching.

The Chief also appealed to community members to support the various Fire stations in their localities with resources, as this would motivate firefighters to give their best.

"Community members can also support fire safety initiatives by donating resources or volunteering their time to help educate others on fire safety," he said.

He advised people to have fire emergency numbers on speed dial for a rapid response in times of emergency. "We must have local firefighting emergency numbers saved on our phones so we can easily reach them in times of need, rather than calling radio stations to announce the situation and hope they respond," he said.

"This call is a reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for collective responsibility in preventing and combating fires. As the nation comes together to promote fire safety, it is essential to recognise the critical role that individuals, communities, traditional leaders, and religious leaders can play in preventing devastating fires," he added.

The traditional leader commended the government’s efforts in promoting fire safety through the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

A recent investigation by Joy News revealed that the country has only 248 fire tenders to serve a population of 30.8 million people. The report, led by JoyNews editor Fred Smith, revealed that out of the 248 fire tenders, only 155 are functioning, while 133 are out of commission across various regions.

Read also: Fire Service struggles as 133 of 248 fire tenders remain out of service.

The Ghana National Fire Service launched a Bushfire Prevention Campaign in Accra, a week ago.

At the event, 19 pick-up trucks, 2 command vehicles, and 1 bushfire rapid intervention vehicle were presented to the GNFS by the Ministry of the Interior. The pick-up trucks and command vehicles were donated by the government, while Fire Aid UK and the International Development Team contributed to the rapid intervention vehicle.