Alarming Rise in Fire Casualties: Deaths Up 33%, Injuries Nearly Triple

Accra, Ghana – July 9, 2025 – The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has sounded the alarm over a disturbing spike in fire-related casualties across the country. New data released by the Service reveals a 33% increase in fire-related deaths and nearly a threefold rise in injuries in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

Between January and June 2025, 16 people lost their lives in fire incidents, compared to 12 deaths in the same period in 2024. Even more startling is the rise in injuries, which surged from 30 to 110—a 266% increase, putting immense pressure on emergency medical services and burn treatment units.

A Crisis Rooted in Negligence and Inadequate Safety Measures

The GNFS attributes the growing numbers to several recurring and preventable factors:

• Poor electrical wiring and unregulated installations.

• Explosions caused by faulty gas cylinders.

• Careless handling of flammable materials.

• Fires in overcrowded urban spaces, particularly markets and slum areas.

• Increased bushfires during the dry season.

Urban centers like Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale continue to record the highest incidents, especially in densely populated markets where electrical faults and cooking activities often lead to large-scale infernos.

A Strained Healthcare System

The sharp rise in fire-related injuries has further strained Ghana’s limited burn units and emergency services. Many victims suffer from severe burns, respiratory damage from smoke inhalation, and long-term psychological trauma. Experts warn that unless this trend is curbed, the country could face a public health crisis.

GNFS Responds

In reaction to the growing crisis, the GNFS is intensifying public education campaigns and calling for urgent reforms. Key recommendations include:

• Routine inspection of electrical installations.

• Safe storage and usage of gas and flammable items.

• Compliance with fire safety regulations in homes, offices, and markets.

• Installation of fire extinguishers in public spaces.

• Construction of modern, accessible fire hydrants and service roads in high-risk areas.

The Service also wants stricter enforcement of the Ghana Building Code and the Fire Precaution (Premises) Regulations, urging Municipal and District Assemblies to ensure compliance across the country.

A Call to National Action

The data underscores a critical need for coordinated national action on fire safety. With Ghana’s infrastructure rapidly expanding and urban populations growing, the risks associated with poor fire safety measures are only increasing.

Fire experts and civil society organizations are urging the government to invest in modern firefighting equipment, increase the number of fire stations, and introduce fire drills in schools and workplaces.