The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Alex King Nartey, has refuted claims made by some traders of the recent Kantamanto fire, alleging that personnel arrived at the scene with petrol in their tender to escalate the fire.
He described these accusations as ridiculous and malicious, emphasizing that such claims are both baseless and technically impossible.
Responding to the issue, Mr. Nartey expressed his disappointment over the ignorance displayed in spreading such misinformation. He particularly addressed a comment made by a woman to a blogger, which has since gained traction online. According to him, the claim that the fire service arrived at the scene with petrol is not only irresponsible but also devoid of logic.
“It’s unfortunate that people who should know better are sharing and ridiculing the fire service, exposing their own ignorance,” he stated. “One person claimed we came to the fire scene with petrol. Let’s take mental health seriously because it doesn’t make sense. If we had so much petrol, would we store it in our fire tender? Wouldn’t we use it to fill our tanks instead?”
He explained further, “How many gallons of petrol can even fit in a fire tender? And once there’s fire, pouring petrol on it would only make it worse and endanger the personnel and the tender itself. If petrol were in the hose, the fire would immediately trace it back to the vehicle and ignite the entire tender before it even leaves the pump.”
Mr. Nartey also highlighted the technical impossibility of such a scenario, pointing out that fire tenders are specifically designed to carry water or firefighting foam, not flammable substances like petrol. He urged the public to be cautious in spreading unverified information, as it only undermines the efforts of the GNFS and creates unnecessary confusion.
“If you are sharing this out of genuine curiosity, that’s fine. But if your intent is to ridicule, then you’re ridiculing yourself because it shows your ignorance. Let’s not encourage such baseless narratives,” he added.
He concluded by appealing for understanding and support for the fire service while suggesting that the woman who made the initial claim may need medical attention. “If she is unwell, let’s help her find the care she needs, but let’s not amplify the nonsense she is spreading. It does no good to anyone,” he said.
The GNFS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and encouraged the public to focus on constructive discussions rather than engaging in unfounded speculations.
The public relations officer of the Ghana National Fire Service, Alex King Nartey has refuted claims by some victims of the Kantamanto fire that personnel came with petrol in their tender to further escalate the fire.
He described the speculation as ridiculous and malicious,… pic.twitter.com/GtaTx1hN2K
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) January 3, 2025
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