The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has conducted simulation exercises to prepare for potential flooding as the rainy season sets in. The exercise, which involved external stakeholders, aimed to enhance the service’s readiness to rescue victims of flooding.
According to Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Timothy Osafo-Afum, head of Public Relations at GNFS, flood-prone areas in the Greater Accra Region have been identified, including Adabraka, Kwame Nkrumah Circle, and Tseaddo, among others.
ACFO Osafo-Afum emphasized the importance of awareness creation on changing weather patterns and urged the public to keep track of weather forecasts and warnings by the Ghana Meteorological Agency. He advised residents to avoid flood-prone areas, relocate to safer areas, and have an evacuation plan in place.
Additionally, he cautioned drivers to drive slowly and cautiously during heavy rains, avoid driving on flooded roads, and turn on headlights to maintain safe distances from other vehicles. He also stressed the importance of avoiding the use of electrical appliances outdoors during rains and ensuring proper drainage by keeping gutters, drains, and culverts clear of debris.
As part of its long-term plan to mitigate the impact of flooding and improve disaster resilience in Ghana, the GNFS will continue to train its personnel and collaborate with stakeholders in flood mitigation and prevention.
“We must avoid using electrical appliances outdoors during rains. Ensure to get a competent and certified electrician to work on all earth faults and get lightning arrestors installed to prevent fires from lightning strikes,” ACFO Osafo-Afum warned.
“Children must not be allowed to play in rainwater, especially when there is a thunderstorm,” he added.
