By Daniel Kweku Baidoo, Certified HSEQ Professional
Markets are the heartbeat of Ghana’s trade and commerce, bustling with activity as vendors and customers engage in daily transactions. However, recent fire outbreaks—including the devastating Adum market fire—have once again brought to light the dire need for effective fire safety measures. Without proper prevention and preparedness, these incidents can lead to the destruction of livelihoods, loss of lives, and severe economic setbacks.
As an experienced Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) professional working in the Gulf Region, I believe that market fires can be prevented through practical safety strategies. Here are some crucial fire safety tips that local assemblies, market leaders, and vendors must prioritize to create a safer environment.
1. Fire Prevention: The First Line of Defense
Proper Storage of Flammable Materials
Markets house various flammable substances, including cooking gas, chemicals, and electrical appliances. It is crucial to store these materials in approved containers, away from heat sources. Regular inspections should be conducted to detect leaks or damaged storage units before they become fire hazards.
Electrical Safety
Faulty wiring, illegal power connections, and overloaded circuits are among the leading causes of market fires. To mitigate these risks, market authorities must engage licensed electricians to inspect and maintain electrical systems regularly. Proper installations and timely repairs can prevent electrical sparks from igniting disastrous fires.
Clear Walkways and Exit Routes
In emergencies, every second counts. Vendors must keep aisles and exit routes clear at all times to allow for quick evacuations and easy access for firefighters. Blocked pathways can lead to chaos, injuries, and greater loss.
No Open Flames
Many vendors rely on kerosene lamps, candles, and charcoal stoves, but these pose serious fire hazards when placed near flammable materials. Using battery-operated lights and safer cooking alternatives can significantly reduce the risk of fires breaking out.
2. Emergency Preparedness: Being Ready for the Unexpected
Fire Drills
Regular fire drills can equip vendors and market workers with the knowledge needed to act swiftly and calmly during an emergency. Familiarity with evacuation procedures can prevent panic and save lives.
Fire Extinguishers and Alarms
Markets should be equipped with fire extinguishers and functional fire alarms where feasible. The early detection of fire allows for quick intervention before flames spread uncontrollably.
Fire Safety Training for Vendors
Basic fire safety training should be provided to vendors so they can recognize fire hazards, use fire extinguishers, and respond effectively in case of a fire. When vendors are well-informed, they become the first line of defense against fire outbreaks.
Emergency Contact Information
All market areas must display up-to-date emergency contact numbers for the fire service, police, and medical response teams. Quick access to these numbers can ensure a rapid response to any fire incident, minimizing damage and loss.
3. Professional Firefighting Techniques: Handling Fires Effectively
Firefighters need specialized training to tackle market fires, especially in densely packed trading environments. Early fire detection, water-based suppression techniques, and proper ventilation are critical in controlling fires. Additionally, market authorities should collaborate with fire service personnel to ensure smooth evacuation procedures and crowd control measures.
4. Community Engagement: The Power of Collective Action
Fire safety is a shared responsibility. Market leaders, traders, and local assemblies must work together to foster a proactive safety culture. Organizing fire safety workshops, conducting routine inspections, and enforcing compliance with fire regulations will go a long way in preventing disasters.
5. Recovery and Support: Rebuilding After the Fire
In the unfortunate event of a fire, recovery efforts must be swift and well-coordinated. Affected vendors should receive financial and psychological support to help them rebuild their businesses. Markets must also develop structured recovery plans to restore operations quickly and prevent prolonged economic disruption.
Conclusion: A Collective Effort to Prevent Market Fires
While market fires pose a significant threat to businesses and communities, the good news is that prevention is possible through simple but effective safety measures. By implementing robust fire safety practices, we can protect lives, sustain livelihoods, and preserve the vibrancy of our markets.
The time to act is now. Through awareness, cooperation, and decisive action, we can ensure that our markets remain safe, thriving hubs of commerce for generations to come.
