Breaking News: Fire Destroys 4 Shops near Bolgatanga Main Station, Gha

A devastating fire destroyed four commercial shops opposite the Area Council near the Bolgatanga Main Station in the Upper East Region, causing an estimated GH¢165,000 worth of damage.

A distress call was received by the Ghana National Fire Service at 6:03 p.m. on Monday, July 20, from a caller identified as Mr Nsoh. A crew of six firefighters from the Upper East Regional Headquarters, led by Station Officer Grade One (STNO I) Bright Atimbiok, was dispatched a minute later and arrived at the scene at 6:07 p.m. By the time firefighters reached the area, three boutique shops and one building materials shop were already engulfed in flames.

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The Ghana National Fire Service's Upper East Regional Public Relations Officer (PRO) said in a statement that the intensity of the fire necessitated the deployment of a reinforcement crew, with Zebra Four responding as Pump Two to support the firefighting operation. Through the combined efforts of the two teams, the fire was brought under control at 6:40 p.m. and completely extinguished at 7:45 p.m., preventing it from spreading to adjoining properties.

Firefighters returned safely to base at 8:24 p.m. The Ghana National Fire Service urged the public to ensure that electrical installations are properly maintained, avoid unsafe electrical connections and report fire outbreaks promptly to enable a swift emergency response. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and the community must work together to prevent such incidents in the future. The GNFS has a crucial role in maintaining fire safety standards and educating the public on fire prevention measures.

The Upper East Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire. The public is waiting with bated breath for the outcome of these investigations.

Source: JOY