THE Western Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service has launched an inter-market fire safety quiz competition in Sekondi-Takoradi to promote fire prevention awareness and curb recurring market fires in the region.

Teams representing Sekondi, Apremdo, Kojokrom and the Takoradi makeshift market each scored 12 points, resulting in a tie. All the teams were presented with fire extinguishers.

According to the command, some contestants will be selected to represent the region at the national competition.

Addressing participants on Monday, the Western Regional Fire Commander, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO II) David Asah Darko, described the initiative as a major step towards preventing fire outbreaks, protecting markets and safeguarding livelihoods.

“It is about learning, discipline and responsibility,” he mentioned.

He noted that the competition offered additional benefits, as traders would gain practical knowledge on how to keep their premises safe and respond quickly to fires at their early stages.

ACFO Darko recalled major incidents in the region, including the Takoradi makeshift market fire in April 2022 and the Market Circle fire in August 2020.

He said the command had intensified 24-hour patrols at major markets in the Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis and other districts.

He added that the service was stepping up public education through the mass media, market queens and market managers to prevent future fires.

ACFO Darko then urged traders to prioritise safety and adhere to fire prevention measures. “Switch off electrical appliances, candles and coils before leaving the market. Avoid illegal electrical connections, maintain proper housekeeping and do not burn refuse in the markets,” he cautioned.

He described the quiz as successful, citing that it demonstrated the readiness of market women to implement lessons learnt during training sessions.

The Metropolitan Chief Executive of Sekondi-Takoradi, Mr Frederick Faidoo, who launched the event, expressed concern about the use of coal pots in markets and advised traders to avoid practices that could spark fires.

Although the region had been spared major fires recently, he stressed the need for collective vigilance.

Mr Faidoo also assured traders that steps would be taken to establish a fire station at the Sekondi market.

The Acting Regional Manager of the National Insurance Commission, Ms Nadaa Ashong, urged traders to insure their goods to guard against future losses. “As we pray, we must also take precautionary measures to avoid tomorrow’s regrets,” she advised.