The management of the Ghana National Fire Service has cautioned the general public to adhere to basic fire safety practices to avoid incidents of fires during this dry season.

In a statement signed by Mr Prince Billy Anaglate, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service, said within the last few days the harmattan has intensified making the weather very fertile for fires to spread.

It said the public is advised to be extra careful with the way naked fires are handled.

It said smokers are to ensure that cigarettes butts are properly extinguished before they are disposed off.

The statement said some safety measures that must be adhered to in order to avoid fires include: when leaving the home ensure that all electrical equipment, except fridges are switched off and unplugged, close all doors and windows tight, avoid the use of charcoal for cooking and for heating in the market, do not accumulate sawdust in the timber market as this is a potential source of fire outbreak, improper electrical connection must be avoided and proper use of candles must be adhered to by placing the candle in a ceramic bowl or an enamel bowl.

The statement said as per the Prevention of Bushfires Law, PNDC Law 226, it is an offence not to report a bushfire adding that all such bushfire must be reported to the Fire Service for the appropriate action.

It said all fire and fire related incidents can be reported to the Fire Service through emergency number 192.