Ghana has been facing devastating fire outbreaks which sometimes lead to loss of lives, destruction of property and severe economic setbacks. These fires predominantly occur in homes and markets, with Accra and Kumasi experiencing some of the most catastrophic incidents.

The recurrence of market fires in major trading centres such as Kejetia and Central markets in Kumasi and Kantamanto and other markets in Accra raises concerns about the country’s fire prevention mechanisms and response strategies.

Whilst discussions on fire safety intensify, the burning question that surfaces is, why does Ghana continue to face such outbreaks and how can the country learn from advanced nations like Germany and other advanced countries where smoke detectors are used in controlling and mitigating infernos?

One of the most recent fire incidents in Kumasi sparked national outrage, with the Ashanti Regional Minister publicly rebuking and chastising the fire service department for what he described as inefficiency in handling the crisis.

The incident which ravaged large sections of the market in Kumasi resulted in millions of Ghana cedis worth of goods being lost which leaves traders in distress. Similarly, Accra has witnessed successive fires in major markets, with traders losing their means of livelihood overnight.

These fires are often attributed to faulty electrical wiring, improper handling of flammable materials, dumsor (power outages) and in some cases, arson.

However, the fundamental challenge remains the lack of an effective early warning system to detect and prevent fires before they escalate into full-blown disasters.

Unlike Ghana, developed nations such as Germany have significantly minimized fire outbreaks through the widespread use of smoke detectors. These devices are installed in residential buildings, workplaces and commercial spaces to detect smoke at the earliest stages of combustion.

The moment a smoke detector senses unusual smoke levels, a resounding alarm is triggered which allows for instantaneous actions to be taken. The response time of a smoke detector or fire alarm depends on factors such as the type of sensor, the fire's characteristics and environmental conditions.

Ionization Smoke Detectors (detect fast-flaming fires) trigger fire alarm within 30 to 90 seconds. Photoelectric Smoke Detectors (detect smoldering fires) usually activate within 60 to 120 seconds depending on smoke density.

Fire Alarm Systems with Central Monitoring, if connected to a fire alarm panel, send signal to a monitoring station (In Ghana, it can be the nearest fire service department) within seconds when there is an inferno; nobody has to call the fire service but they are alerted within seconds and this ensures rapid intervention before the fire spreads uncontrollably.

Finally, Smart Smoke Detectors (Wi-Fi or interconnected systems) usually send alerts to mobile devices or linked alarms almost instantly when triggered.

Germany’s fire safety laws mandate the installation of smoke detectors in homes and commercial spaces. Property owners are required to ensure that these devices are in working condition and periodic checks are conducted to ascertain their effectiveness.

In cases where the alarm is triggered, emergency response teams are quickly dispatched to the exact location. This is possible due to integrated tracking systems that relay real-time information to fire departments.

This system significantly reduces response time prevents fire incidents from escalating into large-scale disasters.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has faced repeated criticism for its perceived inefficiency, but it is essential to recognize the structural limitations that hinder its effectiveness.

Many fire service stations in Ghana may lack adequate resources such as efficient fire trucks, water hydrants and modern firefighting equipment.

Additionally, the absence of an automated fire detection and reporting system means that fires are often reported late and that leaves firefighters with little chance of saving affected properties.

By the time emergency teams arrive at the scene, the fire has usually spread beyond control thereby exacerbating losses and heightening public frustration.

To address this problem, Ghana must consider the adoption of a nationwide smoke detector system, similar to what is practiced in Germany and other advanced countries.

The government, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders should introduce policies that mandate the installation of smoke detectors in homes, markets and workplaces. To ensure affordability, subsidies and financial incentives could be provided to individuals and businesses willing to install the devices.

Moreover, market centres which have been the epicentre of most fire outbreaks should have a centralised fire detection system linked directly to local fire departments. This would ensure that whenever a fire starts, firefighters can be alerted immediately, allowing them to respond promptly.

Another crucial aspect that Ghana must consider is public education and awareness. Many fire incidents occur due to negligence and a lack of understanding of fire safety protocols.

Whilst some fire service personnel are providing education to Ghanaians on fire prevention measures in recent times, more need to be done. Sensitisation campaigns should be conducted to educate traders, homeowners and business owners on fire prevention strategies.

Regular fire drills should also be introduced to ensure that people know how to respond effectively in case of a fire emergency.

Furthermore, Ghana’s fire service infrastructure needs urgent modernization. The government must invest in equipping fire service stations with state-of-the-art firefighting tools including fire-resistant clothing, modern fire engines and improved water supply systems.

Equipping firefighters with better tools and resources will significantly enhance their ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

Additionally, a legislative framework should be established to enforce fire safety standards. Property owners who fail to install smoke detectors or adhere to fire safety regulations should face legal consequences.

This will encourage compliance and foster a culture of fire safety consciousness in both residential and commercial spaces.

Germany’s success in minimising fire outbreaks is largely attributed to a combination of strict regulations, advanced technology and efficient emergency response systems.

By adopting a similar model, Ghana can significantly reduce the frequency and impact of fire outbreaks. The introduction of smoke detectors, coupled with proactive firefighting strategies could be a game-changer in Ghana’s fight against market and residential fires.

If the government and relevant agencies take decisive action, countless lives and properties can be saved and Ghana can finally break free from the cycle of devastating fire incidents.