The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Tema Regional Command has begun discussions with the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to improve the functionality and accessibility of fire hydrants across the region.
The initiative, led by Regional Fire Commander ACFO II Patrick Sallah and the Regional Operations Officer, saw the GNFS team paying a courtesy call on the Regional Chief Manager of GWCL, Dr. Samuel Ason, to strengthen collaboration between the two agencies.
The meeting addressed critical issues such as the recommissioning of buried or non-functional hydrants, the replacement of couplings that fall short of GNFS standards, and the need to ensure hydrants deliver high water pressure during firefighting operations.
Another key concern was improving accessibility to hydrants, especially during emergencies, as the Tema Region continues to face significant fire risks. Notably, areas like Tema New-Town remain particularly vulnerable due to the absence of water hydrants.
National statistics from GNFS indicate that out of 1,832 water hydrants across the country, only 797 are currently operational — a shortfall the Service is eager to address.
As part of the solution, GNFS and GWCL have agreed to establish a joint task force to tackle hydrant-related challenges and improve fire response readiness.
The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both organizations to work hand-in-hand to safeguard lives and property across the region.