The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has ordered the immediate closure of a mobile mini restaurant operating with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at the Total Filling Station on Oxford Street, Osu, in Accra, following the emergence of a viral video that captured the use of open flames in dangerously close proximity to fuel pumps.
The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, drew swift reaction from the GNFS due to the flagrant violation of fire safety regulations it depicted. In the footage, open flames were being used to prepare food just a few meters from fuel dispensers—an act that poses a grave threat to life and property.
“This is a blatant disregard for fire safety protocols,” said Desmond E. Ackah, Divisional Officer Two (DO II) and Head of Public Relations at the GNFS. “Fuel stations are high-risk zones because they store highly flammable substances. The use of LPG or any spark-generating activity in such areas is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.”
As part of immediate preventive measures, the GNFS has shut down the operations of the mini restaurant to avert a potential fire disaster.
In response to the incident, the Acting Chief Fire Officer, DCFO Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong, has directed intensified inspections of all fuel and gas stations across the country. She warned that any individual or business found flouting fire safety standards would face legal consequences.
“The safety of the public is our top priority. We will not hesitate to take decisive action against violators,” DO II Ackah emphasized.
The GNFS is also appealing to the public to remain vigilant and play an active role in fire prevention efforts. “We urge all citizens to report unsafe practices around fuel and gas installations to the nearest fire station or call our hotlines—0302772446 or 0299340383—for prompt intervention,” Mr. Ackah added.
