The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised concern over severe logistical challenges, revealing that the service has not received any new fire tender in the past 15 years, a situation it says is affecting emergency response operations nationwide.
According to the Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, Assistant Divisional Officer I, Alex King Nartey, the lack of modern equipment continues to hinder the effectiveness of firefighters, particularly during large-scale emergencies such as floods, building collapses and fire outbreaks.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, June 30, Mr. Nartey said fire officers routinely risk their lives in rescue operations, often working under extremely difficult conditions to save victims in distress.
He noted that firefighters often operate at great personal risk, regardless of injuries or fatigue, stressing that the nature of the job requires full commitment even in dangerous situations.
Mr. Nartey expressed disappointment over public reactions to rescue operations during the recent floods, citing viral footage in which firefighters attempting to save lives were reportedly mocked by onlookers.
“Do you hate the fire service so much that you laugh at a fire officer trying to rescue someone? Exactly what is our offense? People are even recording videos while firefighters are risking their lives, and yet they are laughing,” he lamented.
He explained that the ageing equipment often breaks down under pressure, reducing efficiency during critical operations such as firefighting and flood rescue efforts.
“The last time we got any fire tender was over 15 years ago. 15 good years ago. Even if you buy a brand new car, within five to 10 years it will wear out. How much more fire tenders that respond to multiple fires a day?” he said.
