The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully contained a major fire at Ashaiman Tulaku on Tuesday evening, limiting damage to surrounding properties and preventing casualties, thanks to a swift emergency response.
Divisional Officer II Ebenezer Yenzu, Tema Regional Public Relations Officer for the GNFS, told the Ghana News Agency that the fire, which reportedly started around 16:00 hours, quickly engulfed wooden kiosks and metal containers. A distress call was received at 17:21, and the Ashaiman fire unit arrived at the scene just three minutes later, at 17:24—a response time credited with preventing the flames from spreading further.
“Prompt reporting and quick action by our team were crucial in stopping the fire from reaching seven additional metal containers and eight timber structures,” Mr Yenzu said. Reinforcements, including three additional fire engines and a water truck, were dispatched from the Tema Industrial Area, Regional Headquarters, and China Mall areas to help contain the blaze.
The fire was fully brought under control by 19:00 hours. Investigators are still determining the total number of destroyed kiosks, though six metal containers were partially burnt, with their contents lost. Mr Yenzu also noted the added dangers posed by the presence of high-tension pylons and several gas cylinders, three of which exploded prior to firefighters’ arrival.
The GNFS officer used the incident to stress fire safety and urban planning measures. He urged residents to maintain clear spaces between structures and avoid storing highly combustible materials in densely populated areas, noting that proper spacing can reduce the spread of fire and make containment easier.
“No casualties were recorded, which underscores the importance of timely reporting and adherence to safety measures,” Mr Yenzu said, calling for increased public awareness to prevent similar incidents in the future.
