CHIEF FIRE OFFICER WORRIED

The Chief Fire Officer, Albert Brown Gaisie has expressed serious concern about the continuous refusal of traders at the Kumasi Central Market to adhere to fire safety regulations, only to turn about to demand for government relief interventions when there is an outbreak of fire. 

He reminded the public that fire consciousness is a collective responsibility and that nothing should be left to chance where fire safety is concerned. 

Mr. Brown Gaisie was interacting with journalists when he paid a visit to the Kumasi Central Market where fire recently gutted a large section of the market. 

The fire described as the worst in the history of disasters recorded at the market started at the yams section and spread to areas where sheabutter, meat and other consumables are sold. 

Mr. Brown Gaisie said traders at the market cannot afford to be negligent, especially as the harmatan has intensified. 

He also expressed concern about the serious congestion at the Kumasi Central Market and called for immediate measures to decongest the facility.

 Mr. Brown Gaisie explained that management of the markets against fires is not the responsibility of the Fire Service, but the local authority.

 This notwithstanding, the visibility of the Fire Service has been intensified throughout the country.