Accra, July 01, GNA- The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has held a passing out parade for a total of 516 recruited firemen and women at the Fire Academy and Training School (FATS) in Accra.

The Recruit Course 54, who were persons with HND, diploma and WASSCE/SSCE qualifications, comprised 294 males and 222 females from the various regions across the country.

The recruits throughout the nine-week period undertook training exercises on the rudiments of firefighting required to manage and prevent extensive fire damage during an outbreak.

The training exercises include familiarization with Fire Service Equipment, Hoses and Fittings, and Hydrant and Hose Standard Practices, among others.

The recruits were also equipped with additional physical fitness and mental alertness to strengthen them through their daily Physical Training and Foot Drills.

Mr Ambrose Dery, the Minister for Interior, at the event congratulated the Recruit Course 54 for their resilience and comportment throughout the period of training.

He said the GNFS had demonstrated over time its preparedness to protect the country from the ravages of fire and other life-threatening situations through quality training of personnel, Fire Safety Education and putting their lives on the line to save lives and property.

Mr Dery said despite the gains made over the period there was still an important fragment of the population that was preventing the Service attained a complete circle of fire safety.

He attributed that to the lack of participation and adherence to fire safety precautionary measures by some compatriots, and their reluctance in availing themselves of direction from the Ghana National Fire Service on how to protect their properties from fires.

“We need a change in attitude, we need to develop an attitude that gives us a constant awakening of fire safety in our homes, offices or anywhere we find ourselves. I believe, it is one of the surest ways to build our Nation,” the Minister added.

He assured that plans were afoot for the Service to take delivery of modern firefighting equipment to help in the delivery of its mandate as the government regarded the Ghana National Fire Service as an important stakeholder in nation-building.

Mr Dery commended the GNFS for the various interventions the Service had made in ensuring fire reduction in the country.

In all, four personnel were given awards for their excellent performances throughout the training period.

GNA