Computers ring a positive note for Ghana’s fire service

Tema-based computer firm, Socio Computers Limited, has presented 170 early warning computers to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in Accra.

These computers, worth GH¢1,530,000, are expected to help improve the response time to fire outbreaks in the country.

The devices were presented by the Chief Executive Officer of Socio Computers Limited, Dr Kenneth Afari.

The units were designed by a Ghanaian and manufactured in three different countries. It is hoped that the infrastructure would help to transform the image of the Fire Service and boost technology in the country.

Afari said since its inception, the Fire Service had depended on people to report fire. This can result in delays which cause late arrivals and destruction to property.

He said the computers would serve as an early warning gadget by detecting fire outbreaks. According to the CEO, “The advantage of the computers is that even when people are out of their homes, it would send signals to the control rooms of the service in the districts or regions, and this would help minimize destruction by the fire.”

He said the equipment is fixed in the control rooms of all regional and district offices of the service and would display the geo-location of the fire. It will also show pictures of the fire in the recipients’ home or office building and reflect whether there are people involved or affected.

Afari urged Ghanaians to hook onto the system by utilising the detectors and called on them to take safety seriously.

Segun Adekoye