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Dutch Chief Fire Officer raises concerns over Ghana's water rescue and market fire safety preparedness

Johan Tuitert, a Dutch Chief Fire Officer, has highlighted deficiencies in Ghana’s water rescue systems and fire safety measures in urban markets following a private working visit. His assessment of beaches and swimming pools in Accra revealed that while some facilities showed basic readiness, overall systems need strengthening to ensure effective emergency response. Tuitert emphasized the need for rapid response capabilities, proper training, and reliable equipment for water-related emergencies, advocating for standardized preparedness across high-risk locations. Beyond water safety, he also pointed out persistent fire risks in major markets like Kantamanto and Makola. He observed congested access routes, high fire loads, and limited enforcement of safety regulations, which complicate firefighting efforts. Tuitert noted that these conditions reflect broader urban management and compliance issues. His engagements with the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ministry for the Interior focused on improving coordination, training, and access to modern rescue and firefighting equipment. He acknowledged the commitment of personnel despite resource constraints but stressed the importance of sustained investment to enhance both water rescue capacity and fire safety in densely populated urban areas.