The fire usually starts small: an overloaded extension board, a candle near a curtain during a power cut, a gas cylinder with a loose regulator. Within minutes it can take a room. House fires and market fires appear in Accra news almost every week, and most of them begin with ordinary household habits.
Electrical faults
Electrical faults are among the leading causes of fires in Ghanaian homes. Common problems include overloaded sockets, cheap extension cords, poor wiring and appliances left on. Use one appliance per socket where possible, buy certified cables and boards, and have an electrician check old wiring.
Power surges
When power returns after an outage, surges can damage appliances and start fires. Switch off or unplug large appliances during outages and use surge protectors for televisions, fridges and computers.
Gas cylinders
LPG cylinders must be kept upright, in a ventilated place, away from heat. Check hoses and regulators for cracks. If you smell gas, do not switch on lights or use a phone near the leak; turn off the cylinder, open windows and leave the room.
Candles and lanterns
During power cuts, many families use candles and kerosene lamps. Never leave them unattended, keep them away from curtains and children, and place them on stable, non-flammable surfaces. Rechargeable lamps are safer.
Cooking
Never leave a pot of oil on the fire unattended. If oil catches fire, cover the pan with a lid or damp cloth and turn off the heat. Never pour water on burning oil.
Have an extinguisher
A small fire extinguisher in the kitchen and near the main electrical board can stop a fire from spreading. Learn how to use it before you need it. A fire blanket is useful for kitchen fires.
Plan your exit
Many Accra homes have burglar-proof bars on windows and locked gates. They keep thieves out but can trap families during a fire. Keep keys where every adult knows to find them and make sure there is more than one way out.
Call for help
Call the Ghana National Fire Service on 192 or the national emergency number 112. Give a clear address or landmark, using your GhanaPostGPS digital address if you have one.
Fire engines in Accra fight traffic to reach emergencies. The best fire service in most homes is a family that switches off, unplugs and checks before going to bed.
