Ghana Fire Service highlights violation of ban on cooking in market.
The Ghana Fire Service has concluded its investigation into the March 2023 fire outbreak at the new Kejetia Market in Kumasi, identifying cooking as the cause of the inferno. According to the Regional Fire Public Relations Officer, D.O.III Peter Addai, the investigation revealed that a trader cooking in a nearby shop ignited a material, leading to the blaze that engulfed one of the floors at the market.
Despite efforts to enforce a ban on cooking, heating, or related activities within the market, traders reportedly continue to defy the rules, leading to safety concerns. Peter Addai recounted a near-fire incident in November when another trader almost caused a fire by using a heater to warm water, resulting in only the kettle being burnt.
The Kejetia Market fire on March 15, 2023, caused significant damage to property and goods, amounting to millions of cedis. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in enforcing safety regulations within public spaces.
In the broader context, the Ashanti Region recorded over nine hundred fire cases from the beginning of the year to December 10, 2023, representing a 13.42% reduction compared to the same period in 2022. Despite the reduction in the number of cases, the estimated cost of damaged property increased significantly in the year. The Ghana Fire Service managed to salvage over GHS 370 million worth of properties, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions and public awareness.
As the harmattan season sets in, the Ghana Fire Service is urging the public to take precautions and adhere to safety measures to prevent fire incidents during the festive season. The enforcement of regulations and public education remains critical in mitigating the risks associated with fire outbreaks in crowded spaces like markets.