Mr. Kwabena Owusu Akyeampong, Deputy Minister of the Interior on Friday tasked Regional Commanders of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to intensify public sensitisation on causes of fire outbreaks.

This he said would reduce the occurrence of market, domestic, institutional, industrial and vehicular fires.

“Much as government is doing a lot to enhance the logistics level of the Service, let us reduce fire outbreaks in the country which regrettably, is still at an unacceptable level,” he said.

Mr. Akyeampong was speaking at the Passing out Parade of Recruit Course 44, of the GNFS in Accra.

“The performance of the Fire Service will be determined more by the reduction in the occurrence of fires rather than the number of fires you fight. This is because by preventing fires in the first place, precious lives and valuable properties are saved.”

Mr. Akyeampong urged the commanders to abide by the directive to inspect all sensitive and strategic installations to ascertain their safety as far as fire hazards were concerned.

“The recent fire at the offices of Lands Commission and other preventable fires in Accra, Lawra and Kasoa in recent times, are issues which we should all draw lessons from and increase our vigilance,” he said.

According to the Minister, Government was looking at other challenges such as inadequate personnel accommodation, vehicles and other logistics as well as improved working conditions of the personnel.

He reiterated the warning that criminal elements who engaged in deliberate acts of arson would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The minister advised the recruits to work diligently to enhance the corporate image of the GNFS to help save the country’s forests and vegetation, especially during the dry season.

Mr. Akyeampong asked the personnel not to refuse postings to any part of the country that their services would be needed.

A total of 300 recruits passed out with 199 males and 101 females.

Mr. Isaac Amoh Danso emerged as the Overall Best Recruit, as well as the Best Recruit in Academics. Other award winners were, Miss Carlen Naa Adjeley Adjei, Best in Foot drills whiles Miss Amanda Marshall Abena received the Commandants’ Award.**