The Ministry of the Interior on Friday tasked personnel of Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to be vigilant, impartial, and professional in carrying out their duties on December 7 to ensure incident free polls.

Mr Kwabena Owusu Akyeampong, Deputy Minister of the Interior said “GNFS is a strategic partner in the nation’s development and as it plays a vital role in preventing undesirable fires and the destruction of the country’s valuable investments in the agricultural, industrial, manufacturing, commercial, hospitality, health and the educational sectors of the economy.

“It is in recognition of this crucial role that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government has since the beginning of 2012 procured 125 new fire tenders, 55 units of double cabin Nissan pick-up vehicles, 4 turntable ladders, 4 towing vehicles breathing apparatus, protective clothing and other equipment for the Services to enhance their operations”, he added.

The Deputy Minister was speaking at the passing out parade of 298 recruits course 45 of the Service at the Fire Academy and Training School (FATS) at James town in Accra.

Mr Akyeampong who was the reviewing officer urged the Chief Fire Officer to develop more training programmes that would be in line with government policy of prioritising human resource development as one of the pillars to accelerate the enhancement of the service.

“You must update your skills to meet the challenges posed by fires caused as result of technological advancement,” he stated.

He asked the recruits to do all in their power to uplift the image of the service.

Fireman Godsway Kudzo was adjudged the overall Best Recruit.

GNFS was established by Act 537, (GNFS Act of 1997) to give a broad objective of prevention and management of undesired fires and other related matters.

To achieve this objective, the Service is expected to perform the following functions: organise public fire education programmes; create and sustain awareness of the hazards of fire; and heighten the role of the individual in the prevention of fires.

GNFS is to provide technical advice for building plans in respect of machinery and structural layouts to facilitate escape from fire, rescue operations and fire management; and inspect and offer technical advice on fire extinguishers.

It also has the mandate to co-ordinate and advise on the training of personnel in fire fighting departments institutions in the country; train and organise fire volunteer squads at community level; offer rescue and evacuation services to those trapped by fire or in other emergency situations and undertake any other function incidental to the objective of the Service.