Fire service urges public to stop prank calls, warns lives are at risk

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) is concerned about prank calls. These calls threaten timely responses to real emergencies.

ADO I Derrick Elorm Adzokpa from the GNFS Public Relations Department spoke on this issue. He noted that prank calls have decreased this year, but they still pose a significant threat.

“The prank calls are killing us,” Adzokpa said. He highlighted the strain hoax emergencies place on personnel and resources.

In the first quarter of 2025, prank calls dropped by 31.52% compared to 2024. This progress is due to increased public education and awareness of the consequences.

“It shows that people are beginning to understand the implications,” he added. Prank calls can congest emergency systems, blocking genuine callers from reaching help.

“When you call 112 or 192 and it doesn’t go through, someone else may be on the line,” he warned. That could very well be a prank call.

To combat this issue, the GNFS encourages using alternative emergency numbers when main lines are busy. The additional hotlines are: 0302772446 and 0299340383.

Adzokpa stressed responsible use of emergency services. He urged citizens to report anyone misusing the system. “Even one prank call can cost a life,” he stated.

The GNFS continues its campaign to educate the public about emergency line abuse. They urge all Ghanaians to help protect these vital services.