FIRE OUTBREAK AT GA NORTH MUNICIPAL HOSPITAL OFANKOR

FIRE OUTBREAK AT GA NORTH MUNICIPAL HOSPITAL

The Ga North Municipal Assembly engaged residents, patients and stakeholders to gather information and reactions following a fire outbreak at the Ga North Municipal Hospital. The incident caused panic among patients, staff and visitors, as it affected the main municipal health facility.

According to information gathered from hospital authorities and eyewitnesses, the fire started after smoke was detected from the meter room. The estate manager quickly informed management, and power was switched off from the main source. Despite the swift action, the fire intensified within a few minutes, causing chaos particularly at the Outpatient Department OPD where many patients were receiving care at the time.

Hospital staff, especially some male workers and security personnel, bravely used available fire extinguishers to control the fire before the arrival of the Ghana National Fire Service. Patients were evacuated from affected wards, and some were referred to sister facilities including Achimota Hospital and Ga East Hospital to ensure continuity of care.

Some patients and eyewitnesses praised the hospital staff for their quick response and courage in managing the situation.

An eyewitness recounted that although there was fear and confusion, staff members risked their lives to reduce the intensity of the fire using fire extinguishers. Their timely intervention helped to prevent the situation from escalating before the fire service arrived.

The Municipal Chief Executive, who visited the scene together with the Presiding Member, NADMO officials and Social Welfare officers, commended the hospital management and staff for their reactiveness. He expressed satisfaction with the swift evacuation of patients and the effective use of fire extinguishers to contain the fire.

The MCE emphasized the importance of basic firefighting knowledge, stating that firefighting begins with individuals and institutions being able to use simple equipment such as fire extinguishers. He assured management that the Assembly is committed to improving fire safety measures within the municipality.

He further indicated that steps are being taken to ensure that Ga North Municipality acquires a fire tender to improve emergency response. He also mentioned plans to consider stationing a fire officer permanently at the hospital to strengthen safety preparedness.

Despite the commendation of staff efforts, some concerns were raised regarding the handling of the incident.

Mr Adu Asare criticized the Electricity Company of Ghana in the municipality for arriving late to address the electrical issue that reportedly contributed to the fire. He also faulted the municipality for not ensuring that the Ga North Fire Service has a fire tender readily available to respond promptly to emergencies.

Hospital management acknowledged long standing challenges with an overloaded meter and ongoing engagements with the Electricity Company of Ghana over the past two years. They expressed hope that the incident would serve as an opportunity to permanently resolve the electrical challenges affecting the facility.

There were also suggestions that each hospital block should have a separate meter to reduce pressure on the main system. Management requested an official technical report to support urgent corrective action.

The fire outbreak at the Ga North Municipal Hospital has generated mixed reactions within the municipality. While many residents commended the bravery and swift response of hospital staff in controlling the fire and protecting lives, others expressed concern over delays and the lack of adequate emergency logistics such as a fire tender.

The incident highlights the need to strengthen electrical safety systems, improve collaboration with the Electricity Company of Ghana, and enhance the capacity of the Ghana National Fire Service within the Municipality.

Further measures including improved infrastructure, regular safety audits, and the possible stationing of a fire officer at the hospital may help prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of both patients and staff.

#GaNorthInFocus
#GaNorthMunicipalAssembly
#Getting Ga North Closer to the People
#AkweteAgbo