The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) on Thursday, December 18, 2025, commenced a nationwide vehicle fire-extinguisher compliance exercise aimed at ensuring that all vehicles operating on Ghana’s roads are fitted with functional, easily accessible, and GNFS-certified or embossed portable fire extinguishers.
The exercise is being undertaken by the GNFS Fire Safety Compliance Taskforce in collaboration with the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service.
In a statement signed by Divisional Officer II and Head of Public Relations, Desmond E. Ackah, the Service said the operation will involve on-the-spot fire safety inspections of vehicles, the issuance of GNFS certification tags for approved fire extinguishers, and the provision of technical guidance to drivers and vehicle owners on compliance requirements in line with Section 4(c) of the Ghana National Fire Service Act, 1997 (Act 537).
As part of the nationwide exercise, the GNFS is also engaging transport unions and associations across the country to highlight the importance of vehicle fire safety.
Drivers and vehicle owners are required to procure and carry at least one functional GNFS-certified fire extinguisher, ensure that the extinguisher is serviceable by checking the pressure gauge, expiry date, and tamper seal, and mount it securely in an easily accessible location within the vehicle.
The Service further advised vehicle owners to train drivers on the safe use of portable fire extinguishers and to keep other essential safety items, including warning triangles and first-aid kits, in their vehicles at all times.
Emphasising the importance of preparedness, the GNFS noted that a swift response during vehicle fire incidents can prevent the loss of life and property, explaining that a certified and properly maintained fire extinguisher within arm’s reach can make the difference between a minor incident and a devastating tragedy.
The GNFS reaffirmed its commitment, as the lead agency for fire prevention and public safety, to improving road safety nationwide through intensified public education and the strict enforcement of fire safety regulations.
