The Greater Accra Regional Fire Service has issued a strong warning to victims of the recent devastating fire at the Kantamanto market against immediate reconstruction without seeking proper fire safety advice.
At a press conference in Accra, Regional Commander ACFO II Rashid Nisawu emphasised the importance of adhering to professional guidance to avoid a recurrence of such incidents.
He urged stakeholders and victims to consult the fire service for standardised construction plans and appropriate materials.
“As we speak, I have informed the authorities that if they proceed with reconstruction without professional advice, and another fire occurs, they will face the same tragedy,” ACFO II Nisawu said.
He added that the fire service had already proposed measures to ensure safer structures and mitigate future risks, but enforcement remained beyond their jurisdiction.
Addressing accusations from some victims that fire officers used petrol during their firefighting efforts, ACFO II Nisawu dismissed the claims as baseless and absurd.
“Why on earth would anyone carry petrol in a fire tender and pour it on a fire? Even the thought of it defies logic—it is a danger to the officers themselves,” he stated. The press conference aimed to clear misconceptions and reassure the public about the professionalism of the fire service.