The Tema Regional Fire Officer (ACFO) Emmanuel Inkum has called on the public for support to purchase a Breathing Apparatus (Oxygen) Filling Plant.

This would enable them to constantly fill their breathing apparatus cylinders for operations which is very crucial in the survival of fire fighters and rescuers in emergency cases.

ACFO Inkum made the appeal through The Spectator in an interview where he disclosed that currently the filling plant at the Regional Headquarters had broken down and they filled their breathing apparatus at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) or the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other private institutions which have offered to do so at no cost.

The interview aimed at finding out the challenges of his administration as a new Regional Fire Officer and what he intended doing differently to address issues in the region upon assuming office on October 6, this year.

He explained that if they were able to have their own plant, it would facilitate frequent training of their fire personnel to make them conversant with its usage to enhance their swift performance on the field and make them more comfortable in its usage. 

The Tema Regional Fire Officer also called on the public to support them with proximity suits (fire tunics), fire resistant boots, face masks, helmets and Fireman axe to facilitate their work and ensure safety of their personnel.

He stressed the need for collaboration between the Tema Regional Office and Traditional leaders to make lands available for more District Offices in the area.

ACFO Inkum said the role of the business community and industries in putting up of more offices would be much appreciated as it would bring them closer to residents and industries.

He said much as the GNFS was investing in personnel preparedness for emergencies and swift response to fire scenes it would need public support in various ways to make their efforts a success. 

He said in-service training and competitions at the regional and district levels had been intensified to beef up personnel preparedness to give the public the best services.

He appealed to the public to be more welcoming when they come to them with their fire education outreach because the knowledge acquired could go a long way to save lives and properties. 

From Dzifa Tetteh Tay, Tema.