Tema, July 25, GNA- The public have been urged to always endeavour to carry accident victims in ambulances instead of commercial vehicles as that worsens their condition.

The Tema Regional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) DSP Prosper Ayisi said ambulances have been designed to have the right structures to carry accident victims and they must be used as such.

"Forcing the injured into public transport is not the ideal way as poor handling of the victim could cause more injuries than what was sustained from the accident and this must be rectified". He made the call at the opening of a four day seminar organised by the Tema Office of the National Fire Service (NFS) for thirty-nine of its district, senior and sectional heads drawn from the region at Tema. Mr Ayisi who was a resource person at the seminar was speaking on the topic, "the police and fire service collaboration". Talking on the frequent use of sirens, he advised firemen to cease the practice because with time the public might consider it as normal and would not respond to distress attention. To ensure their safety in the event of putting out fires at, the MTTU Commander underscored the need for firemen to always inform the police for protection, saying, the collaboration between the two institutions is vital for effective strategizing.

This is because during such incidents, hooligans take advantage to loot items and also attempt to vandalize fire tenders and the police presence could save the situation. He asked firemen to be conversant with the rules and regulations governing their profession. He asked the firemen to embark on an educational drive to enable the public to become aware of the negative practices of making false alarm calls.

The Tema Municipal Chief Executive, Mr David Quaye Annang, urged the Fire Service to make full use of their potential and not to limit their work to fire disasters alone.

He called for the improvement of relations between the Fire Service and the public through effective education to enable them know the numerous duties of the service.

Mr Annang advised the participants to be committed to the programme, which must show in their work.

The Municipal Fire Officer, Mr Paul Tamakloe said the seminar was designed to enhance the knowledge of participants to improve their performance for effective and efficient work attitude. Topics to be treated include NADMO and Fire Service collaboration", "Fire Service operational efficiency", "Guidance and Counselling", and "Fire precaution (premises), regulations, 2003 (LI 1724) among others.