The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has announced a nationwide vehicle fire extinguisher compliance exercise, set to commence on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The initiative aims to ensure that all vehicles operating on Ghana’s roads are equipped with functional and easily accessible fire extinguishers.
The exercise will be led 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 issued on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the Service explained that the operation seeks to strictly enforce the requirement for all drivers and vehicle owners to carry at least one GNFS-certified or embossed portable fire extinguisher in their vehicles.
Officers will conduct on-the-spot fire safety inspections, issue GNFS certification tags for approved extinguishers, and provide technical guidance on their proper use, in accordance with the Ghana National Fire Service Act, 1997 (Act 537).
The GNFS also revealed plans to engage transport unions and driver associations nationwide to intensify education on fire prevention, preparedness, and basic fire response.
Drivers and vehicle owners are expected to ensure their fire extinguishers are fully serviceable by checking pressure gauges, expiry dates, and tamper seals, and that the extinguishers are securely mounted and easily reachable within the vehicle.
The exercise will include practical training on the safe use of portable fire extinguishers, and motorists will be encouraged to keep other essential safety items such as warning triangles and first-aid kits in their vehicles.
The Service emphasized that every second counts during a vehicle fire, noting that having a certified and functional fire extinguisher within reach can mean the difference between a minor incident and a tragic loss.
The GNFS reiterated its commitment to strengthening road safety across the country through sustained public education and strict enforcement of fire safety regulations.
