GNFS identifies 5 major causes of fire outbreaks as incidents decline in Q1 2026

The Ghana National Fire Service has identified five main causes of fire outbreaks in the country, even as it reports a significant reduction in fire incidents, deaths, and injuries for the first quarter of 2026. The latest figures highlight both progress in fire prevention efforts and ongoing challenges that require sustained public attention.

According to the Service, fire incidents fell by 10.02 per cent over the period under review. Fire-related deaths reduced by 53.5 per cent, while injuries declined by 62.79 per cent. Bushfires also recorded a 10.2 per cent drop, and prank calls to emergency lines decreased by 17.8 per cent. These improvements suggest enhanced coordination between emergency responders and the public, as well as increased awareness of fire safety practices.

The GNFS further reported a substantial improvement in property protection, with the value of salvaged assets rising sharply to GH¢479,457,385.00 from GH¢151,026,471.40 in the same period in 2025, representing an increase of 217.47 per cent. This significant rise reflects more effective firefighting interventions and quicker response times.

Out-of-Arrival (OOA) cases also rose to 651, compared to 558 in 2025, reflecting improved public response and early containment of fires before firefighters arrive at the scene. This trend indicates growing community involvement in fire prevention and emergency response.

Despite the positive trends, the Service outlined five key drivers of fire outbreaks that continue to pose risks nationwide:

Electrical faults and misuse of appliances
Faulty wiring, power surges, and improper use or overloading of electrical appliances remain a leading cause of fires in homes and workplaces. Experts emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to electrical safety standards.

Unattended cooking and LPG leakages
Fires resulting from unattended cooking and poor handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders continue to feature prominently. Authorities warn that negligence in kitchens remains one of the most preventable causes of domestic fires.

Indiscriminate burning of refuse and bushfires
Uncontrolled burning of waste and vegetation remains a major contributor to bushfires and property destruction, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas where enforcement of environmental regulations may be limited.

Misuse of naked flames
Careless use of candles, mosquito coils, matches, and lighters continues to cause preventable fires, especially in residential communities where alternative lighting sources may be limited.

Lightning and deliberate acts
Natural occurrences such as lightning strikes, as well as intentional acts of arson, were also identified as causes, though less frequently than other factors. These incidents, while less common, can result in severe damage when they occur.

The GNFS attributed the overall improvement in fire statistics to intensified public education, strengthened emergency response systems, and increased community involvement in early fire control. Public awareness campaigns, in particular, have played a critical role in educating citizens on fire prevention and safety measures.

It noted that the rise in Out-of-Arrival cases reflects improved public capacity to contain fires before they escalate, reducing damage and saving lives. This development underscores the importance of community preparedness and basic fire response knowledge.

While commending the progress made, the Service stressed the need for sustained vigilance, particularly in addressing the identified causes, which are largely preventable through responsible behaviour and adherence to safety standards. Authorities continue to urge households and businesses to prioritize safety in daily activities.

The GNFS reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing fire prevention education and improving rapid response capabilities nationwide, describing fire safety as a shared responsibility requiring continued public cooperation across Ghana.